State of Origin Game 2 sees Queensland attempt to course-correct, having spectacularly shot themselves in the foot in the series opener last month. The Maroons led 20-6 and were cruising when Kalyn Ponga saw red in the 58th minute for a horrific collision with Tolutau Koula.
Queensland failed to score another point, while New South Wales managed three tries in 16 minutes to win 22-20, with a magnificent effort from James Tedesco completing the turnaround in the final minute.
If the second match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground follows the pattern of the first half rather than the second, we should be in line for a decider in Brisbane next month.
Laurie Daley, however, brought code-jumping specimen Mark Nawaqanitawase into the NSW fold for Wednesday’s potentially decisive showdown, in place of the injured Casey McLean. Nawaqanitawase, who has represented both the Wallabies and Kangaroos, has taken no time to establish himself as one of the NRL’s biggest stars. The 25-year-old will return to rugby union next year.
Mitchell Moses also slotted right back into the starting lineup in his first appearance since suffering a hamstring injury that ruled him out of the opener. He replaces Ethan Strange, who was arguably their star man of the day.
Billy Slater has allowed Reece Walsh to return to the scene, after completely neglecting him three weeks ago. The Brisbane Broncos star hasn’t been in good form of late, but in his era there are few better. Ponga leaves for Queensland despite his indiscretion.
Here’s how to watch State of Origin Game 2 from anywhere in the world.
Can you watch State of Origin Game 2 for free?
Yes. State of Origin Game 2 is broadcast on the free-to-air Channel 9 and 9Now in Australia.
Are you traveling abroad at the moment? You can use a VPN to watch NSW vs QLD for free as if you were at home.
Use a VPN to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams
A VPN is a handy piece of software that can make your device appear to be in your home country, so you can unblock your usual service. The best VPN at the moment? We recommend NordVPN – it does it all and offers up to 75% off.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in the US
NRL fans in the US can watch State of Origin Game 2 either on FS2 Or Fox One.
Fox One, which also streams all 2026 World Cup matches live, costs $19.99/month after a FREE 3-day trialbut for a limited time, you can get three months for the price of two.
FS2 is also available through Sling, specifically the Blue plan, which starts at $45.99/month.
The channel is also broadcast on several other OTT streaming platforms, including YouTube TV And Fubowhich each offer a free trial to new customers.
Outside the United States? Use a VPN while you travel away from home to unblock your feed.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in the UK
State of Origin Game 2 is streaming on Aerial sports in the United Kingdom, via the Sky Sports Action channel.
Sky Sports packages start from £35/month or £20 if you’re already a Sky subscriber. You can also purchase a Now Sports subscription from £14.99/day or £34.99/month.
Outside the UK at the moment? To use NordVPN to access your favorite NSW vs QLD coverage.
Can I watch State of Origin Game 2 in Canada?
State of Origin 2 coverage continues Sports Network in Canada.
This means you can also watch online through its Sportsnet+ streaming service (starting at $29.99 per month / $249.99 per year). And the Watch the NRL the platform will show the light fixture.
If you already subscribe to these services but are located outside of Canada, download a VPN and watch NSW vs QLD like you’re back at home.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in Australia
In Australia, State of Origin Game 2 is streaming for free on Channel 9 and via the Streaming service 9Now.
All you need is an account. Register here!
If you’re not in Australia but still want to connect, explore the VPN route shown above, which will help you access your accounts from anywhere.
What is the start time for State of Origin Game 2?
State of Origin Game 2 begins at 8:05 p.m. AEST / 11:05 a.m. BST / 6:05 a.m. ET / 3:05 a.m. PT on Wednesday June 17.
Who are the teams in State of Origin Game 2?
New South Wales team: 1. James Tedesco, 2. Brian To’o, 3. Tolutau Koula, 4. Kotoni Staggs, 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase, 6. Mitchell Moses, 7. Nathan Cleary, 8. Payne Haas, 9. Reece Robson, 10. Mitchell Barnett, 11. Hudson Young, 12. Dylan Lucas, 13. Isaah Yeo
Bench: 14. Cameron Murray, 15. Victor Radley, 16. Addin Fonua-Blake, 17. Apisai Koroisau, 18. Ethan Strange, 19. Jack Bostock
Reserve: 20. Haumole Olakau’atu
Queensland team: 1. Kalyn Ponga, 2. Selwyn Cobbo, 3. Robert Toia, 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, 5. Jojo Fifita, 6. Cameron Munster, 7. Sam Walker, 8. Thomas Flegler, 9. Harry Grant, 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, 11. Briton Nikora, 12. Kurt Capewell, 13. Reuben Cotter
Bench: 14. Max Plath, 15. Lindsay Collins, 16. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, 17. Trent Loiero, 18. Reece Walsh, 19. Murray Taulagi
Reserve: 20. Heilum Luki
What is the NSW vs QLD head-to-head?
Queensland have won 25 series over State of Origin and New South Wales 17. Two series have ended in a draw.
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