In a last-ditch bid to salvage pride and avoid a series whitewash on their home turf, the New South Wales Blues have named seven new players in their line-up for the final match of the 2023 State of Origin series.
The comprehensive revamp of the side is a bold move by coach Brad Fittler, following their brutal 32-6 defeat in Origin II.
A cluster of Rabbitohs luminaries – Cody Walker, Cameron Murray, and Keaon Koloamatangi – will appear in the starting side. These stalwarts will be led by James Tedesco, while the Knights’ outside back, Bradman Best, is slated to make his debut. Best has been conspicuous in the lead-up to the game, unabashedly declaring his animosity towards Queensland.
Meanwhile, rumours are rife that reserve player Spencer Leniu could be ushered into the squad in the eleventh hour.
However, the Queenslanders, under the guidance of coach Billy Slater, are aiming for a history-making 3-0 victory. Such an accomplishment would make them only the fifth Maroons team in 42 years to dominate the series to this degree. The last series sweep was by Queensland in 2010.
Despite Tom Flegler’s injury and Reece Walsh’s referee-related suspension, Queensland has made minimal alterations to its successful Origin II squad. Corey Horsburgh is slated to debut, with AJ Brimson ascending to the role of fullback.
Furthermore, Origin II’s player of the match, Lindsay Collins, might see an elevation in his role after his impressive performance in Brisbane.
James Bracey will host the exclusive Origin coverage on Wide World of Sports, joined by a star-studded panel including Andrew Johns, Cameron Smith, Johnathan Thurston, Phil Gould, Darren Lockyer, Paul Vautin, and Paul Gallen. These legendary figures will analyse the game in-depth, providing insights into each pivotal moment.
This expert commentary will be augmented by breaking news from Danika Mason in the build-up to kick-off, alongside Allana Ferguson and Mathew Thompson. Plus, the game will be streamed live on 9Now, offering additional second-screen streams for an enhanced viewing experience.
Viewers can look forward to player cams featuring James Tedesco of NSW and Daly Cherry-Evans of QLD. An eagle-eye view of the play via Spidercam promises to offer a new perspective on the action.
In the aftermath, fans can indulge in a quick recap with 9Now mini-match, a succinct 20-minute summary of the highlights.
Origin III will be broadcast live from Sydney’s Accor Stadium at various times across the country, depending on local time zones.
STATE OF ORIGIN III – NEW SOUTH WALES v QUEENSLAND
LIVE from Accor Stadium, Sydney
Sydney 7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Brisbane 7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Melbourne 7.00pm LIVE on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Adelaide 6.30pm LIVE on 9GemHD, 7.00pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now
Perth 5.00pm LIVE on 9GemHD, 5.30pm on Channel 9HD and 9Now
THE BUILD-UP TO ORIGIN III ON NINE
100% FOOTY – Monday, July 10 at 9.00pm
The biggest opinions from the voices who count. Host James Bracey deciphers all the headlines with Phil “Gus” Gould, Paul Gallen and Danny Weidler.
SIX TACKLES WITH GUS
Phil “Gus” Gould sits down with Mat Thompson every week to give a sermon like no other on the greatest game of all.
FREDDY AND THE EIGHTH – The eighth rugby league Immortal, Andrew Johns, previews Origin III with special guests Millie Boyle, Danny Buderus and Adam Reynolds.
9Now and YouTube.
QUEENSLANDER – The Sunshine State’s favourite sons, Wally “The King” Lewis and Darren Lockyer, give their Maroon-coloured preview of how the Queenslanders are shaping up for Origin III. Available on 9Now and YouTube.
