As the excitement builds for the 2025 Women's State of Origin series, the New South Wales Blues are set to face off against the Queensland Maroons in a highly anticipated opener at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, May 1. This year's series marks a significant shift, as it will be contested over three matches instead of the traditional two, following the introduction of this format last year. With kick-off scheduled for 7:45 PM AEST, both teams are eager to showcase their talent and determination on the field.
New Blues coach John Strange, who has taken the reins from Kylie Hilder, is optimistic about his squad's chances despite the heartbreak of last year's series loss. The Blues had initially secured a win in game one of 2024, thanks to a stunning long-range try from Jaime Chapman, but ultimately fell short, losing the series 2-1. This year, Strange is focusing on moving forward rather than dwelling on past disappointments. "It's about moving forward," he said. "Yes, there are quite a few girls that were involved last year, but there are quite a few new girls, so I didn’t see the point of dredging that up."
Strange's confidence is bolstered by a six-week training camp that has allowed the team to bond and prepare thoroughly. Keely Davis, a key player for the Blues, believes that this extended preparation period is crucial for their success. "We've had a fair bit of prep," Davis noted. "It's been unreal to have those six weeks rather than playing the NRLW and coming in one or two days before the match." This sentiment is echoed by Millie Elliott, who, although not participating this year due to pregnancy, expressed her confidence in Strange's leadership and the team's potential. "I think he will be great for the team," she said.
Tiana Penitani Gray, the 2024 Dally M centre of the year, is making a notable switch from her usual position to play in the halves alongside young gun Jesse Southwell. Strange has high hopes for Penitani Gray, stating, "She could be footballer of the year. Tiana is a footballer. She has played predominantly in the centres and a bit of fullback in her early days. She can pass both ways really well and understands the game." This change aims to maximize her involvement and impact on the game, as she is expected to have a roving role across the field.
Conversely, Queensland enters the series with a strong core, retaining the same spine that proved successful in 2024. Tarryn Aiken, the reigning Golden Boot winner, is looking to capitalize on her partnership with co-captain Ali Brigginshaw in the halves. Aiken credits Brigginshaw for enhancing her game, as they have played together for years. "We know each other's strengths well and let each other play to our strengths," Aiken explained. With Aiken also coming off a stellar performance in the Pacific Championships and for the Jillaroos in Las Vegas, she poses a significant threat to the Blues' defense.
As the teams prepare for battle, the stakes are high. The Maroons lead the overall series with four victories to the Blues' three, but both teams are tied 5-5 in terms of games won since Women's Origin was officially established in 2018. The last time these two teams met, Queensland triumphed 22-6 in game three of the 2024 series, further fueling the rivalry.
In terms of team composition, Strange has made several changes to the Blues' lineup, with four debutants set to take the field: Abbi Church, Jayme Fressard, Ellie Johnston, and Jocelyn Kelleher. Isabelle Kelly will captain the team, with Penitani Gray serving as vice-captain. The squad includes 11 players from last year's side that lost the series, alongside nine Jillaroos who recently defeated England in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, Queensland is also welcoming new faces, with Jasmine Peters, Jada Ferguson, Rory Owen, and Tavarna Papalii all making their respective Origin debuts. The Maroons' lineup features established stars like Tamika Upton, Shenae Ciesiolka, and Lauren Brown, who will look to leverage their experience against a revamped Blues side.
As the match approaches, ticket sales are on track to surpass 25,000, with the NRL optimistic about breaking last year's record of 25,492, set during the Magic Round. Strange expressed confidence in the Suncorp Stadium surface, which has been newly laid ahead of the series opener. "I’m glad we’re the first game of the Magic Round weekend," he said, reassuring fans that the conditions will be suitable for play.
The anticipation surrounding the Women's State of Origin series is palpable, with fans eager to witness this fierce rivalry unfold over three matches. Game two is set for May 15 at Allianz Stadium in Sydney, followed by the series finale on May 29 at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. With both teams determined to claim victory, this series promises to deliver high-stakes action and memorable moments.
As the clock ticks down to kick-off, all eyes will be on Suncorp Stadium as the NSW Blues and Queensland Maroons clash in what is sure to be an exhilarating opener to the 2025 Women's State of Origin series.
