The Holden State of Origin Series was launched today in Adelaide, as Australian sport’s greatest rivalry prepares to head to South Australia for the first time.
Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler and Queensland Maroons coach Kevin Walters joined South Australian Premier Steven Marshall and NRL Head of Football – Elite Competitions, Graham Annesley at the launch today, just near the venue for Game One this year, the iconic Adelaide Oval.
“There is nothing quite like Origin in this country,” Mr Annesley said.
“State of Origin is rivalry without rival – and it will be fantastic to see this wonderful sporting contest at the iconic Adelaide Oval.
“This year will allow State of Origin to shine on a new stage, in front of new fans, and with new rivalries created.”
Mr Annesley acknowledged the support of the South Australian government, as well as the South Australian Tourism Commission.
Mr Marshall said it was an important day for South Australia and Adelaide.
“It’s an exciting day for NRL fans as tickets go on sale for the 2020 series – with Game 1 to be played right here in Adelaide,” Mr Marshall said.
“This is yet another world-class event on South Australia’s sports calendar – which will attract thousands of interstate visitors and boost our economy.”
Tickets are now on sale for NRL Club and State Members. Tickets will go on sale for the General Public at 10am tomorrow (February 5).
Early bird tickets will be available for adults from $45 and families from $130 for Game One in Adelaide.
The 2020 Holden State of Origin Series will kick off on June 3 at Adelaide Oval, followed by Game Two – a standalone Sunday fixture – at ANZ Stadium on June 21, and Game Three at Suncorp Stadium on July 8.
Brydens Lawyers NSW blues coach Brad Fittler said it was very fitting for the match that kicks off an historic Origin series celebrating 40 years of rivalry to be played at such an iconic venue steeped in history.
“The first game in Adelaide is really important when you look at how closely contested the series has been - our two series wins have come off victories at home at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium and away at the alternate venues in Melbourne (2018) and Perth (2019),” Fittler said.
“Having the support join of the Blatchys Blues in Adelaide is really important too and we hope our fans make the journey to create a sea of blue like they did in Perth last year where the Blatchys Blues effect was a significant factor in our success.”
Maroons Coach Kevin Walters said: “It will be so important to get off to a good start to the series so Game One will be vital for us to set us up for what I’m sure will be another incredibly competitive series.
“I’ve had a look at Adelaide Oval previously and I can’t wait to see Origin showcased in such a magnificent arena.
''It is always great to be able to grow the game in areas which have not yet witnessed the Origin spectacle so this will be another important step forward for the game.”
Tickets are available for all three matches at nrl.com/tickets
