What Is 2001 State of Origin series

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2001 State of Origin series was the 20th annual best-of-three rugby league competition between Queensland and New South Wales, with Queensland winning the series 2–1 after victories in Games 1 and 3. It marked Queensland’s first series win since 1995, ending a six-year drought.

Key Facts

Queensland won the 2001 State of Origin series 2–1 after winning Games 1 and 3.
Game 1 was held on May 27, 2001 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Queensland defeated New South Wales 34–10 in Game 1, their largest-ever Origin win at the time.
New South Wales won Game 2 26–8 on June 13 at Stadium Australia.
The decisive Game 3 was played on July 4, 2001, with Queensland winning 40–14.

Overview

The 2001 State of Origin series was a landmark event in Australian rugby league history, marking Queensland’s first series victory since 1995. After years of New South Wales dominance, the Maroons surged back with a dominant performance, reclaiming pride and momentum in the interstate rivalry.

Played across three matches in May, June, and July 2001, the series showcased a revitalized Queensland team led by captain Wally Lewis Trophy winner Darren Lockyer. The Maroons’ aggressive defense and explosive backline play overwhelmed the Blues, culminating in a record-breaking Game 3 win.

Queensland won Game 1 34–10 on May 27, 2001, at Suncorp Stadium, setting a new record for the largest winning margin in Origin history at the time.
The victory in Game 1 was fueled by three tries from Matt Bowen and a commanding performance from halfback Darren Lockyer, who orchestrated much of the attack.
New South Wales responded in Game 2 on June 13, winning 26–8 at Stadium Australia, with tries from Andrew Johns and Brett Hodgson restoring competitive balance.
Game 3 on July 4, 2001, saw Queensland dominate 40–14, marking their highest-ever points total in a single Origin match and securing the series 2–1.
This series marked the first time since 1991 that Queensland won both Games 1 and 3, highlighting their consistency and resilience under pressure.

Key Match Performances

Each game in the 2001 series featured standout individual and team performances that shifted momentum and defined the series outcome. Players stepped up under pressure, delivering moments that became iconic in Origin folklore.

Game 1 Breakthrough: Queensland’s 34–10 win was powered by fullback Ben Ikin, who scored two tries and set up a third, earning Man of the Match honors.
Defensive Turnaround: Queensland’s defense in Game 1 forced seven errors from NSW and limited them to just one try, a significant improvement from previous series.
Johns’ Leadership: Despite the loss, Andrew Johns led NSW with two try assists in Game 2 and controlled field position with precise kicking under pressure.
Historic Game 3: Queensland’s 40 points in Game 3 broke the previous record of 38, with three tries in 12 minutes sealing the series win.
Coaching Impact: Queensland coach Wayne Bennett made key tactical changes, including shifting Lockyer to five-eighth, which unlocked attacking potential.
Young Talent: Rookie Shaun Berrigan made his Origin debut in Game 3 and contributed two try assists, symbolizing a new era for Queensland rugby league.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the three matches in the 2001 State of Origin series:

Game	Date	Winner	Score	Venue
Game 1	May 27, 2001	Queensland	34–10	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Game 2	June 13, 2001	New South Wales	26–8	Stadium Australia, Sydney
Game 3	July 4, 2001	Queensland	40–14	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Series Total Points	—	Queensland	84–50	—
Attendance (Avg)	—	—	45,000 per game	—

The table highlights Queensland’s dominance in scoring and home advantage, with both their wins coming at Suncorp Stadium. The Blues managed only one victory, and despite strong performances from Johns and Hodgson, they struggled to contain Queensland’s speed and cohesion.

Why It Matters

The 2001 State of Origin series had lasting implications for rugby league in Australia, reshaping team dynamics and fan engagement. It signaled a shift in power and inspired a new generation of players and supporters.

Queensland’s win ended a six-year drought, restoring state pride and boosting morale among fans and players alike.
The series marked the beginning of a more competitive era, with future Origin matches becoming increasingly unpredictable and intense.
Wayne Bennett’s coaching strategies were widely praised and influenced future team selections and game plans across the NRL.
Young players like Ben Ikin and Shaun Berrigan emerged as future leaders, ensuring long-term success for Queensland.
The record score in Game 3 raised the bar for offensive performance, pushing teams to prioritize speed and skill development.
Television ratings surged, with over 3.5 million viewers tuning in for Game 3, highlighting the series’ growing national significance.

The 2001 series remains a turning point in State of Origin history, remembered for Queensland’s resurgence and the emergence of a new golden generation.