Under 19s State of Origin confirmed for July 13

Jasper Bruce | June 14, 2023

One-off men’s and women’s Under-19s State of Origin matches will be played as a double-header on July 13 at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium, the NRL has announced.

The inaugural men’s clash took place last June at Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval and showcased such talents as Paul Alamoti, Jonah Pezet, Toby Couchman, Justin Matamua and Jojo Fifita, who have all debuted at NRL level since NSW’s 32-4 win.

As was the case last year, those who have already debuted at NRL level are not expected to be released for the game, with the Sydney Roosters reluctant to allow Sam Walker and Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii to line up in the 2022 match.

The women’s fixture has been held since 2019, but was an under 18’s match in its first iteration and suspended the following year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

NSW have won all three matches played so far, with Jaime Chapman, Teagan Berry, Caitlan Johnston and Keilee Joseph among the established NRLW players to have featured in the fixture.

The matches will be played the day after the third men’s State of Origin match in Sydney and also follow on from the expanded two-match women’s State of Origin series.

“The under-19s concept was extremely successful last year and once again we will showcase the best interstate players and our pathways,” Australian Rugby League Commission chair Peter V’landys said.

“The commission is focused on development of male and female players and strong pathways.”