The countdown is officially on! The 2025 Women’s State of Origin Series kicks off with Game 1 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 7:45 PM AEST. It’s not just a game; it’s the beginning of a three-part battle between Queensland Maroons and New South Wales Sky Blues, where state pride is on the line.
What is the State of Origin?
Why This Game Matters in 2025
This year’s Origin marks a historical moment—it’s only the second time ever the women’s competition will feature a three-game series. With Queensland winning the 2024 series, New South Wales will be fired up to reclaim the shield. Game 1 will likely set the tone for the entire series—there’s no room for a slow start.
Queensland vs New South Wales – Game 1, 2025 Lineup
| Queensland Maroons | Position | New South Wales Sky Blues |
|---|---|---|
| Tamika Upton | Fullback | Abbi Church |
| Julia Robinson | Winger | Jaime Chapman |
| Jasmine Peters | Winger | Jayme Fressard |
| Shenae Ciesiolka | Centre | Jessica Sergis |
| Rory Owen | Centre | Isabelle Kelly |
| Tarryn Aiken | Five-Eighth | Tiana Penitani |
| Ali Brigginshaw | Halfback | Jesse Southwell |
| Keilee Joseph | Prop | Simaima Taufa |
| Jessika Elliston | Prop | Ellie Johnston |
| Lauren Brown | Hooker | Keeley Davis |
| Sienna Lofipo | Second Rower | Kezie Apps |
| Romy Teitzel | Second Rower | Yasmin Clydsdale |
| Destiny Brill | Lock | Olivia Kernick |
| Jada Ferguson | Interchange | Jocelyn Kelleher |
| Sophie Holyman | Interchange | Kennedy Cherrington |
| Makenzie Weale | Interchange | Sarah Togatuki |
| Tavarna Papalii | Interchange | Emma Tonegato |
| Georgia Hannaway | Replacement | Shaylee Bent |
| Chelsea Lenarduzzi | Reserve | Kirra Dibb |
| Hayley Maddick | Reserve | Olivia Higgins |
| Tahnee Norris | Coach | John Strange |
History of the Women’s State of Origin
From the Women’s Interstate Challenge to State of Origin
The rivalry dates back to 1999, beginning with the Women’s Interstate Challenge, dominated by Queensland for over a decade. The rebranding in 2018 to “Women’s State of Origin” brought the series more visibility, sponsorships, and national pride.
Milestones and Memorable Moments
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1999–2014: Queensland’s 16-year win streak.
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2018: Official rebrand and record TV audiences.
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2021: Record crowd attendance.
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2024: Queensland clinched a thrilling series 2-1.
Previous Series Results (Up to 2024)
Before 2025, both states had 3 Origin shield wins each, with Queensland claiming the edge in 2024. This deadlock sets the stage for a fiery 2025 series.
Game 1 – What You Need to Know
Date, Time, and Venue
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Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
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Time: 7:45 PM AEST
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Location: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
How to Watch Live (TV and Streaming Options)
You can catch the action live on:
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Nine Network (Free-to-air in Australia)
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9Now (Live streaming)
International Viewers (Bangladesh Time Conversion)
If you’re watching from Bangladesh, set your alarm for 2:45 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025. It’s early, but trust us—it’s worth it!
The Rivalry – Maroons vs Sky Blues
Intensity and Passion on Display
This isn’t just a game—it’s a grudge match with legacy. Whether you bleed Maroon or Blue, you know this contest means everything. Every tackle, every try, every conversion holds weight.
Key Stats and Records
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Longest winning streak: Queensland (1999–2014)
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Top try scorer (Origin era): Isabel Kelly (NSW)
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Most appearances: Stephanie Hancock (QLD)
Queensland Maroons – 2025 Game 1 Preview
Coach Tahnee Norris’ Strategy
Queensland’s coach Tahnee Norris is all about youth and energy in 2025. Her squad sees a refresh with multiple debutants, aiming to mix passion with flair.
Rising Stars and Debutants
Keep your eyes on:
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Jasmine Fogavini – Explosive on the edge.
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Chantelle Graham – Dynamic dummy-half debut.
Veteran Players to Watch
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Ali Brigginshaw – The queen of composure and game management.
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Tamika Upton – The strike weapon from fullback.
New South Wales Sky Blues – 2025 Game 1 Preview
New Halves Pairing – Penitani & Southwell
Coach Kylie Hilder has rolled the dice with a bold halves combo:
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Tiana Penitani – Traditionally a center, now five-eighth.
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Jesse Southwell – The teenage halfback with supreme confidence.
Coach’s Vision and Game Plan
NSW is going aggressive and agile—expect quick ball movement, offloads, and surprise plays.
Key Returnees and Young Guns
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Isabelle Kelly – Back and in prime form.
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Sienna Williams – Only 19, but playing like a seasoned pro.
Tactical Breakdown
Maroons Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths: Experienced spine, Suncorp crowd
Weaknesses: Rookie errors from debutants
Sky Blues Game Strategy
Strengths: Speedy backs, unpredictable attack
Weaknesses: New combinations under pressure
Head-to-Head Matchups to Watch
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Ali Brigginshaw vs Jesse Southwell
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Tamika Upton vs Emma Tonegato
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Shenae Ciesiolka vs Isabelle Kelly
Suncorp Stadium – The Cauldron
Home Ground Advantage for Queensland
There’s no venue like Suncorp—the roar, the Maroon wave, the sea of flags. Queensland always lifts at home, and the fans are their extra player.
The Fan Experience in Brisbane
From the pre-game buzz in Caxton Street to the stadium fireworks, being there live is unforgettable.
What’s at Stake in Game 1?
Setting the Tone for the Series
Win Game 1, and you’re halfway to winning the shield. It’s more than just scoreboard pressure—it’s momentum, confidence, and bragging rights.
Momentum and Psychological Edge
Especially in a best-of-three format, Game 1 is crucial. It changes how you train, how you plan, and how the media spins the narrative.
Expert Predictions and Pre-Game Buzz
Analyst Insights
Most experts are tipping a tight battle, but Queensland’s home ground may give them the edge. Look for a 2–4 point margin.
Social Media Hype
On X (formerly Twitter), #WomenInLeague and #StateOfOrigin are already trending. Fan predictions, memes, and hype videos are flooding timelines.
What Fans Are Saying
Community Support and Commentary
Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and forums are buzzing with predictions. Everyone has an opinion—and a favorite.
Player Interactions and Social Media Activity
Players are posting selfies from camp, behind-the-scenes footage, and rallying cries. The digital build-up is as good as the game.
The Bigger Picture – Growth of Women’s Rugby League
Increasing Popularity and Viewership
The women’s game is soaring. Bigger crowds, live TV slots, and growing grassroots programs show just how far it’s come.
Grassroots to Professional Pathways
Many of today’s stars came through NRLW and local footy clubs—proving that the path from park footy to State of Origin is clearer than ever.
Conclusion
The 2025 Women’s State of Origin series kicks off in spectacular fashion with Game 1 at Suncorp Stadium. With new faces, veteran firepower, and an electric rivalry, this match is more than a game—it’s a statement. Whether you’re team Maroon or team Blue, get ready for fireworks, hard hits, and unforgettable footy.
FAQs
1. Where can I watch Game 1 of the 2025 Women’s State of Origin?
Catch it live on Nine Network, 9Now, or NRL.com (check availability in your country).
2. Who are the key players in the Maroons vs Blues matchup?
Look out for Ali Brigginshaw, Tamika Upton, Tiana Penitani, and Jesse Southwell.
3. What time does the game start in Bangladesh?
2:45 AM on Friday, May 2, 2025 (Bangladesh time).
4. How many games are in the 2025 State of Origin Series?
There are three games in total for the second time in women’s Origin history.
5. When and where are Games 2 and 3 scheduled?
Exact dates and venues for Games 2 and 3 are yet to be confirmed but will follow in mid and late 2025.
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