The best of the Toyota Cup will finally have their opportunity to go head to head in the inaugural Toyota Under 20s State of Origin clash which was launched today.
The fixture, which will take place on the Saturday (April 21) of the representative weekend, will feature the best of the National Youth Competition and other Under 20’s players plying their trade in the NSW or Queensland Cup who are eligible for Australia.
Playing for the inaugural Darren Lockyer Shield, the clash will take place at Penrith’s Centrebet Stadium and will be televised nationally live and exclusive on Fox Sports.
ARLC Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said the introduction of an Under 20s Origin reflected the status of the game’s elite junior competition.
“The Toyota Cup is unrivalled in Australian sport as both a pathway for our junior stars on the field and for the career and education opportunities it provides for them as well,” Mr Gallop said.
“It has captured the imagination of fans and already this year has set new ratings records on Fox Sports.
“To see it provide the platform for an Under 20s State of Origin concept underlines the impact it has had on our game.”
NSW State of Origin coach Ricky Stuart added: “I wrote a column when this competition was in its first year saying how exciting it was and how I thought it could develop into a representative pathway.
“To see that become a reality is exciting for our game and exciting for the future of State of Origin.
“Rugby League provides the best pathway possible for elite juniors to progress from the 16s and 18s ranks, through the 20s and on to the NRL and this will just add an exciting new dimension to that pathway.”
Tickets for the Toyota Under 20s clash are now on sale through PROTicket at www.proticket.com.au, by calling 1300 12 10 12 or at PROTicket outlets.
All tickets are classified as general admission and cost only $10 for adults, $5 for Juniors (4-15years inclusive) and $25 for a Family ticket (2A+2J or 1A+3J).
