What Is 2017 State of Origin series

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2017 State of Origin series was a best-of-three rugby league competition between Queensland and New South Wales, won 2–1 by Queensland. It took place from May 31 to July 12, 2017, with Queensland securing their 11th consecutive series win at one point in the match sequence.

Key Facts

Queensland won the 2017 State of Origin series 2–1 against New South Wales
Game 1 was held on May 31, 2017, at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
New South Wales won Game 2 18–14 on June 21, 2017, in Sydney
Queensland clinched the series with a 22–6 victory in Game 3 on July 12, 2017
Queensland extended their record to 11 consecutive series wins during this period

Overview

The 2017 State of Origin series was a fiercely contested rugby league showdown between Queensland and New South Wales, continuing one of Australia’s most storied sporting rivalries. This annual best-of-three series featured intense physical play, dramatic comebacks, and pivotal individual performances that defined the outcome.

Queensland ultimately won the series 2–1, reclaiming dominance after New South Wales had broken their streak in 2014. The series was notable for Queensland’s resilience, particularly in Game 3, where they overcame a determined Blues effort to secure victory.

Game 1: Queensland defeated New South Wales 28–4 on May 31, 2017, at Suncorp Stadium, establishing early series control with a dominant defensive performance.
Game 2: New South Wales responded strongly, winning 18–14 on June 21 at ANZ Stadium, Sydney, keeping the series alive with a hard-fought comeback.
Game 3: Queensland sealed the series with a 22–6 win on July 12, 2017, at Suncorp Stadium, marking their 11th consecutive series victory at one point in the streak.
Man of the Series: Queensland’s James Maloney was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal for best player across the series, despite playing for NSW, due to his consistent high-level performances.
Attendance: Total attendance across the three matches exceeded 170,000 fans, underscoring the event’s massive public appeal and cultural significance in Australian sport.

How It Works

The State of Origin is a rugby league competition based on player eligibility by state of origin, not club affiliation, making it one of the most emotionally charged events in Australian sport.

Eligibility Rules: Players qualify based on where they played their first senior rugby league game, ensuring representation reflects grassroots development rather than current residence.
Series Format: The competition is structured as a best-of-three games series held annually between May and July, with each game lasting 80 minutes across two 40-minute halves.
Home Advantage: Queensland traditionally hosts Game 1 and Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, giving them a strategic edge due to strong local support.
Player Selection: Each team selects 17 players per match, with coaches like Mal Meninga (QLD) and Laurie Daley (NSW) making tactical decisions based on form and fitness.
Scoring System: Teams earn points via tries (4 points), goals (2 points), and field goals (1 point), with the highest total at full time winning the match.
Wally Lewis Medal: Awarded to the player judged best on ground across the series, named after the legendary Queensland captain, with James Maloney winning in 2017.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the 2017 State of Origin series results and key metrics:

Category	Game 1	Game 2	Game 3
Date	May 31, 2017	June 21, 2017	July 12, 2017
Location	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane	ANZ Stadium, Sydney	Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Winner	Queensland (28–4)	New South Wales (18–14)	Queensland (22–6)
Attendance	52,500	81,000	52,500
Key Performer	Dane Gagai (3 tries)	James Maloney (NSW)	Chanel Maloney (QLD)

The table highlights Queensland’s strong start and finish, while New South Wales showed resilience in Game 2. Despite the Blues’ win in Sydney, Queensland’s superior performance in deciders proved decisive. The series reaffirmed the importance of home advantage and tactical consistency in high-pressure environments.

Why It Matters

The 2017 State of Origin series was significant not only for its sporting outcome but also for its cultural and emotional impact across Australia. It reinforced Queensland’s legacy in the competition and reignited debates about player eligibility and team balance.

National Pride: The series galvanized fans across state lines, with over 3 million viewers tuning in nationally, highlighting its role in uniting and dividing communities.
Player Legacy: Performances in Origin can define careers, and James Maloney’s Wally Lewis Medal elevated his status despite being on the losing team.
Coaching Strategy: Mal Meninga’s leadership helped Queensland adapt after Game 2, proving the value of experienced coaching in pressure situations.
Commercial Impact: The series generated millions in broadcast revenue and merchandise sales, underscoring its economic importance to the NRL.
Grassroots Influence: Success in Origin inspires youth participation, with record junior sign-ups reported in Queensland following the 2017 win.
Historical Context: Queensland’s 11-series streak (including 2017) remains one of the most dominant runs in rugby league history, cementing their legacy.

The 2017 series exemplified the passion, intensity, and unpredictability that make State of Origin a cornerstone of Australian sport. Its legacy continues to influence team selections, fan engagement, and national pride.