What Is 2002 State of Origin series

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2002 State of Origin series was a three-match rugby league contest between Queensland and New South Wales, won by Queensland 2–1. It took place from May 22 to June 26, 2002. This victory marked Queensland's first series win since 1995.

Key Facts

Queensland won the 2002 State of Origin series 2–1 after a 22–18 victory in Game III on June 26, 2002
Queensland's 2002 win ended an eight-year series drought, their first since 1995
The series began on May 22, 2002, with New South Wales winning Game I 26–18 at Stadium Australia
In Game II on June 5, 2002, Queensland defeated New South Wales 26–18 at Suncorp Stadium
The 2002 series featured standout performances from Queensland captain Darren Lockyer and rookie forward Luke Scott

Overview

The 2002 State of Origin series was a pivotal moment in Australian rugby league history, marking Queensland's return to dominance after nearly a decade of New South Wales supremacy. Played across three intense matches in May and June 2002, the series reignited the fierce rivalry between the Maroons and the Blues, drawing record television audiences and packed stadiums.

Queensland secured the series 2–1, winning Game II and the decisive Game III after losing the opener. This victory was particularly significant as it ended an eight-year drought, with their previous series win dating back to 1995. The 2002 campaign also signaled a shift in team dynamics, with emerging talent and strategic coaching changes playing key roles.

Game I was held on May 22, 2002, at Stadium Australia, where New South Wales defeated Queensland 26–18 in front of 72,186 fans.
Game II took place on June 5, 2002, at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium, with Queensland triumphing 26–18 to level the series.
Game III occurred on June 26, 2002, at Stadium Australia, where Queensland clinched the series with a 22–18 win.
Darren Lockyer, Queensland’s captain, delivered a commanding performance throughout the series, particularly in the final match.
Luke Scott, a debutant for Queensland, played a crucial role in the forward pack, helping secure key momentum shifts.

Game-by-Game Breakdown

Each match in the 2002 State of Origin series featured dramatic turns and pivotal moments that defined the outcome. The series structure followed the traditional best-of-three format, with each state hosting one game and the third played at a neutral venue, though in practice, Game III was held in Sydney.

Game I Result: New South Wales won 26–18, capitalizing on early Queensland errors and strong backline execution led by Andrew Johns.
Game II Turning Point: Queensland’s 26–18 victory at Suncorp Stadium was fueled by home crowd support and improved defensive discipline.
Game III Decider: A tightly contested match ended 22–18 for Queensland, with tries from Clinton Schifcofske and Chris Flannery sealing the series.
Player of the Series: Darren Lockyer was widely regarded as the standout performer, earning plaudits for his leadership and playmaking.
Coaching Impact: Queensland coach Wayne Bennett’s tactical adjustments between games were credited with turning the series around.
Attendance Totals: The three games drew a combined crowd of over 165,000, reflecting the series’ enduring popularity.

Comparison at a Glance

The following table compares key statistics across the three matches of the 2002 State of Origin series:

Match	Date	Location	Winner	Score
Game I	May 22, 2002	Stadium Australia, Sydney	New South Wales	26–18
Game II	June 5, 2002	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane	Queensland	26–18
Game III	June 26, 2002	Stadium Australia, Sydney	Queensland	22–18
Series Result	N/A	N/A	Queensland	2–1
Total Attendance	N/A	N/A	N/A	Approx. 165,500

The series demonstrated a near-perfect balance in scoring and attendance, with each game decided by eight points or fewer. Queensland’s ability to win under pressure in Game III, especially on enemy territory, underscored their resilience and tactical growth under Bennett’s guidance. The narrow margins highlighted the competitive parity between the two states, a hallmark of State of Origin rugby league.

Why It Matters

The 2002 State of Origin series had lasting implications for Australian rugby league, both culturally and competitively. It revitalized Queensland’s confidence and laid the foundation for future successes in the 2000s, including a dominant run later in the decade.

End of Drought: Queensland’s 2002 win ended an eight-year series losing streak, restoring pride in the Maroons’ camp.
Wayne Bennett’s Influence: His appointment as coach marked a new era of strategic discipline and player development.
Emergence of Stars: Players like Luke Scott and Clinton Schifcofske proved vital, signaling a generational shift.
Increased Rivalry: The close scores intensified the interstate rivalry, boosting viewership and media coverage.
Home Advantage: Queensland’s win in Game II at Suncorp Stadium reinforced the venue’s reputation as a fortress.
Legacy Impact: The 2002 series is remembered as the beginning of Queensland’s resurgence in the Origin arena.

Ultimately, the 2002 State of Origin series stands as a turning point in rugby league history, symbolizing resilience, tactical evolution, and the enduring passion of fans on both sides of the border.