It remains the biggest talking point of the 2026 Origin opener, but Channel 9 commentator Phil Gould was having no part in commenting on Kalyn Ponga’s controversial shot on Tolu Koula, or the send-off that followed it.

The Blues have taken a 1-0 lead in the 2026 State of Origin series after a dramatic 22-20 comeback win over the Maroons.

Bradford Bulls full-back Caleb Aekins extends his contract through to the end of next season.

Laurie Daley did not want to weigh into the controversial Kalyn Ponga send-off as the Blues coach gave an interesting response on Mitchell Moses’ potential return for Game 2.

Queensland coach Billy Slater has revealed he had “no problems” with the potentially series-defining decision to send Kalyn Ponga off after an ugly high shot on Tolu Koula in the Origin opner.

A late try from James Tedesco, converted by Nathan Cleary, completes New South Wales' comeback from 20-0 down to beat 12-man Queensland.

Kalyn Ponga made a beeline for the coach’s box to apologise to Billy Slater and his Queensland staff after his game-defining send off in the Origin series opener.

NSW pulled of their greatest ever Origin comeback as a last-gasp try from James Tedesco broke Queensland’s hearts in the series opener.

Billy Slater and the Maroons had victory snatched from their grasp in the State of Origin opener.

Maroons star Kalyn Ponga has become the seventh player sent off in Origin history, with the fullback given his marching orders for a shoulder charge.

A decision from the Bunker to deny the NSW Blues a try before half time has sparked debate among a pair of Origin legends.

Jai Arrow has arrived at Accor Stadium with the Maroons squad in emotional scenes only days after he revealed his heartbreaking motor neurone disease diagnosis.

The PNG Chiefs have reportedly turned their attention to the 15-man code, making a bold play for a pair of brothers starring in rugby union.

Who will be man of the match in the 2026 Origin series opener?