Adelaide Oval will play host to Wednesday's Round 1 NRL game between Queensland Maroons and New South Wales Blues. The game kicks off at 8:05 pm with New South Wales Blues heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Queensland Maroons vs. New South Wales Blues game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Wednesday May 31, 2023 at 8:05 pm

Where: Adelaide Oval

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Queensland Maroons vs New South Wales Blues Odds

Queensland Maroons vs New South Wales Blues Preview

Get ready for an explosive showdown in tonight’s State of Origin game between Queensland and New South Wales. Queensland has made some surprising changes to their lineup, deviating from their usual loyalty policy. Despite leaving out stars like Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai, the Maroons have introduced exciting new talents. Debutant Reece Walsh steps in as a like-for-like replacement for Ponga at fullback, while Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who impressed with a try-scoring debut in 2021, takes his place in the center.

The Maroons’ pack has undergone a significant transformation following the retirement of stalwart Josh Papalii and Felise Kaufusi’s suspension. Young gun Thomas Flegler gets the nod over veteran Christian Welch, adding a fresh and energetic presence to the forward pack. The Queensland team possesses a lethal combination of speed and power, with a dynamic back-five and a formidable pack that includes the game-breaker David Fifita in the second row.

The key to Queensland’s success lies in their brilliant playmaking quartet. Despite carrying a rib injury, Cameron Munster is known for delivering exceptional performances on the Origin stage. Captain Daly Cherry-Evans brings his wealth of experience, playing his 20th Origin match. The rotation of Ben Hunt and Harry Grant provides Queensland with an advantage, as they have two genuine dummy-half options compared to New South Wales’ lone choice.

New South Wales has also made some intriguing selections for the game. The inclusion of Tevita Pangai Jr, a surprise debutant due to Jake Trbojevic’s injury, adds an element of unpredictability to the Blues’ lineup. Supported by the likes of Payne Haas, Junior Paulo, and Isaah Yeo, the Blues’ middle should be able to match Queensland’s physicality.

The Blues boast a formidable backline with the return of Tom Trbojevic and Josh Addo-Carr, who missed last year’s series. Their combination with Latrell Mitchell and Brian To’o poses a constant threat to the Maroons’ defense. Furthermore, Nathan Cleary, coming off an outstanding NRL season, will be determined to make amends for his underwhelming performance in game three last year.

With the match being played in Adelaide, memories of Queensland’s upset victory in the 2020 series opener come to mind. Although New South Wales dominated the last five Origins at neutral venues, the Maroons have a proven ability to surprise their opponents.

Traditionally, State of Origin series openers are tightly contested, and recent games have seen low-scoring affairs. However, both teams possess the potential to light up the scoreboard with their attacking prowess. New South Wales enters the match as favorites, but Queensland’s youthful lineup and hunger to prove themselves could make for an enthralling battle.

All eyes will be on the field as these fierce rivals collide in a quest for supremacy. While New South Wales may have a more balanced squad, Queensland’s determination and the unpredictability of the Origin arena make this matchup too close to call. Buckle up and prepare for an intense State of Origin clash that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.