The Maroons are chasing their third consecutive State of Origin series victory as the series moves north of the border for Wednesday’s final.

Queensland will enjoy the home comforts of a sold-out Suncorp Stadium as they attempt to rebound from a humiliating 38-18 loss to NSW in Game 2.

Queensland coach Billy Slater has made a few changes to his team, with Kalyn Ponga expected to provide a distinct threat when he comes off the bench.

The Maroons have won 9 of the last 10 deciders in Brisbane, so history favours them. The Blues’ previous victory in a live Game Three at Suncorp Stadium occurred in 2005.

NSW, on the other hand, are on a high following their MCG victory, and coach Michael Maguire has picked a settled lineup for Wednesday’s match.

The Blues have made only two changes: Bradman Best has replaced the injured Latrell Mitchell, while Mitch Barnett will make his Origin debut after replacing Haumole Olakau’atu on the bench.

Maguire has made no secret of his team’s aim to win the physical war up front, with Payne Haas and Liam Martin determined to keep Queensland’s backs uncomfortable.

Team News
Queensland: The Maroons have returned 22-game veteran Dane Gagai and his Knights partner Kalyn Ponga to the Origin arena, where both men will play their first game since the 2022 decider. Selwyn Cobbo, the Broncos’ outside back who was rested in Game Two, returns to the centres, while Val Holmes moves to the wing to replace Murray Taulagi (hamstring). Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow has been named and is likely to be fit for the game after suffering an AC joint (shoulder) injury in Melbourne during Game 2. Kurt Capewell, the Warriors’ back-rower, replaces Jaydn Su’a in the starting lineup.

NSW: The fresh additions to the NSW team are Knights centre Bradman Best and Warriors forward Mitch Barnett. After making five changes for Game Two in Melbourne, Blues coach Michael Maguire has recalled Best to replace the injured Latrell Mitchell, while Barnett replaces interchange forward Haumole Olakau’atu, who is listed as a reserve with Luke Keary. The Blues had a scare on Monday when Best went for hamstring scans, but he has since been cleared to play. Matt Burton is the 18th man and is a ready-made replacement if Best fails to show up.