Source: Radio New Zealand
Born in Sydney, Kiwis player Casey McLean would be eligible for State of Origin. Photosport / David Neilson
With State of Origin set to debut in Auckland in 2027, Kiwis can now also feature in the iconic series after changes to the eligibility criteria.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) today announced it was amending the Origin selection rules, which paves the way for Australian-born Kiwis to play in the series.
Players were previously required to be eligible to represent Australia or a tier two nation as defined by International Rugby League.
The updated rules remove this restriction, allowing players who who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria and represent tier one nations to be eligible.
The criteria is a player must have been born in New South Wales or Queensland, resided in New South Wales or Queensland prior to their 13th birthday, or their father played State of Origin.
ARLC chairman Peter V’landys AM said the changes were a necessary and logical evolution for the game in 2026.
“Rugby league has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that. If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they’ve represented New Zealand or England at test level.”
He said State of Origin is about where you were from and what state you were eligible for – not which country you represent internationally.
“If you’re eligible, you should be able to play for your state. Over 45 years, State of Origin has developed into something special, and we want the best players playing if they’re eligible. The commission has a responsibility to grow both the international game and State of Origin, and this change strengthens both.”
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
