The fiercest rival in Australian rugby league resumes tonight, as New South Wales and Queensland meet in the opening match of the 2026 men's State of Origin series.

Queensland are the reigning series champion, but begins their shield defence in enemy territory.

Here is what you need to know ahead of kick-off tonight.

Where can I watch State of Origin Game I?

The Nine Network has the broadcast rights to the State of Origin series.

Game I will be televised on Channel Nine and streamed online via 9Now.

You can follow the action wherever you are on the ABC Sport live blog.

You can listen to the ABC Sport live call with commentator Andrew Moore, with expert analysis by Luke Lewis, Matthew Elliot and John Gibbs.

What time is State of Origin Game I kick-off?

Here is when the kick-off is scheduled in your location.

• 8:05pm: NSW, Queensland, ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, Papua New Guinea
• 7:35pm: South Australia, Northern Territory
• 6:05pm: Western Australia
• 10:05pm: New Zealand, Fiji
• 11:05pm: Samoa, Tonga
• 12:05am: Cook Islands

Where is State of Origin Game I being played?

Game I of the series will be held in Sydney at Stadium Australia.

Queensland has enjoyed recent success playing in enemy territory.

The Maroons have won the previous two State of Origin matches at Stadium Australia, a 38-10 win in Game I of 2024 and a famous 24-12 win in the 2025 decider to claim the shield.

Who is playing for the Blues and Maroons?

NSW was forced into a late change on the eve of Game I, with Mitchell Moses being ruled out with a hamstring injury. 

Ethan Strange has been elevated from the bench to start in the halves alongside Nathan Cleary. Canterbury's Matt Burton has been added to the bench.

When and where are the other matches?

Game II: Wednesday, June 17, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Victoria

Game III: Wednesday, July 8, Lang Park, Brisbane, Queensland

When is the Women's State of Origin?

There is still one match left to play in this year's Women's State of Origin series.

NSW has already claimed the shield after two nail-biting wins.

The final match of the series will be played at Robina Stadium on Queensland's Gold Coast tomorrow night, from 7:45pm AEST.