The Queensland Maroons will take on the New South Wales Blues in the State of Origin series decider at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday evening, July 7, 2026.
The match comes amid lineup changes and speculation regarding coaching futures.
New South Wales coach Laurie Daley has omitted winger Brian To’o from the squad, replacing him with debutant Jack Bostock to utilize his height and aerial abilities.
However, former Queensland winger Darius Boyd downplayed the impact of this adjustment on the Maroons' strategy.
"I don’t think there will be much change to Queensland’s plan," Boyd said.
He emphasized that the series progression allows teams to build their game naturally rather than forcing drastic changes.
"I think you grow your game over the course of the series. For me, Queensland just have to start fast and bring the home crowd in," Boyd added.
Boyd noted that New South Wales retains a consistent core despite making several personnel adjustments prior to the decider.
"As much as NSW have made a few changes, they still have the same coach and majority of the same squad.
I’d like to think around 15 to 20 minutes in, Queensland can bring the home crowd in and go back to business as usual," he said.
Emotional Connection to the Jersey
Reflecting on his personal history with the Maroons, Boyd expressed the deep cultural connection the jersey holds for players and the broader community.
"For me, I get emotional, to be fair," he said.
He recalled his early rugby league aspirations, which initially focused entirely on playing for his club team. "I think about my family and my journey to that point.
I think of a young kid from the Gold Coast who never even aspired to wear something like that.
For me, it was a Broncos jersey – just wanting to play for the Broncos," Boyd said.
The former representative player stated that the true significance of the state jersey became clear during interactions with fans throughout regional communities.
"When that opportunity came knocking, and I got to put it on, I saw what it meant to people far and wide.
When you do the community visits, you go out far and wide and people are crying, they’re emotional, and they’ve driven five, six or seven hours just to come see the Queensland side, it shows you not only what it means to you and your family, but what it means to the wider community of Queensland," he said.
Boyd added that entering Suncorp Stadium for a decisive series match remains an unmatched experience.
"And like you said, running out into the decider, there’s nothing better," he said.
The match also features a tribute to South Sydney great Jai Arrow, who will bring out the shield following his medical retirement due to motor neurone disease, as reported by nine.
com. au.
Queensland and New South Wales have finalized their squads as Suncorp Stadium prepares to host the decisive third match of the State of Origin series.
