Tactical Shifts Expected for State of Origin Game 2
Tactical Shifts Expected for State of Origin Game 2
Updated at: June 16, 2026 at 12:45 AM
The 2026 State of Origin series intensifies this Wednesday, June 17, as the NSW Blues face the Queensland Maroons at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Following their narrow 22-20 victory in the opener, the Blues are aiming to clinch the series, while the Maroons fight to force a decider.
Both teams have overhauled their lineups to gain a tactical edge.
For New South Wales, the return of Mitchell Moses to the halves and the inclusion of powerful forwards like Payne Haas and Dylan Lucas signal a desire for control and physical dominance.
Debutant winger Mark Nawaqanitawase will also provide fresh energy to their backline.
The Maroons are focused on improving discipline after a costly Game 1, hoping their explosive stars like Reece Walsh can capitalize on any momentum.
It promises to be a high-stakes, tactical battle where every error could decide the series.
