State of Origin Game 2 sees Queensland try to correct course after they spectacularly shot themselves in the foot in last month’s series opener. The Maroons were leading 20-6 when Kalyn Ponga saw red in the 58th minute for a horrific collision with Tolutau Koula.
Queensland didn’t score another point, while New South Wales ran off three tries in 16 minutes to win 22-20, a magnificent James Tedesco effort completing the turnaround in the final minute.
If Game 2 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground follows the pattern of the first half rather than the second, then we will should line up for a decision in Brisbane next month.
However, Laurie Daley has brought code-hopping specimen Mark Nawaqanitawase into the NSW fold for Wednesday’s potentially decisive clash in place of the injured Casey McLean. Nawaqanitawase, who has represented both the Wallabies and Kangaroos, has taken no time in establishing himself as one of the NRL’s top stars. The 25-year-old will return to rugby union next year.
Mitchell Moses has also gone straight back into the starting lineup on his first appearance since suffering the hamstring injury that ruled him out of Game 1. He replaces Ethan Strange, who was arguably their star man on the day.
Billy Slater has given Reece Walsh a route back into the picture after completely overlooking him three weeks ago. The Brisbane Broncos star has been out of form of late, but on his day there are few better. Ponga starts for Queensland again despite his indiscretion.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 from anywhere in the world.
Can you watch State of Origin Game 2 for free?
Yes. State of Origin Game 2 is shown on free-to-air channel 9 and 9 Now in Australia.
Are you traveling abroad right now? You can use one VPN to watch NSW vs QLD for free as if you were at home.
Use a VPN to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams
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How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in the US
NRL fans in the US can watch State of Origin Game 2 on either FS2 or Fox One.
Fox One, which also streams every game of the 2026 World Cup live, costs $19.99/month after a 3-day FREE trialalthough for a limited time you can get three months for the price of two.
FS2 is also available through Sling, specifically the Blue plan, which starts at $45.99/month.
The channel is also carried by several other OTT streaming platforms including YouTube TV and Fuboeach of which offers new customers a free trial.
Outside the US? Use one VPN while traveling away from home to unlock your stream.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in the UK
State of Origin Game 2 appears on Sky Sports in the UK via the Sky Sports Action channel.
Sky Sports plans start from £35/month or £20 if you’re an existing Sky subscriber. Alternatively, you can get a Now Sports subscription from £14.99/day or £34.99/month.
Outside the UK right now? Use NordVPN to access your favorite coverage of NSW vs QLD.
Can I watch State of Origin Game 2 in Canada?
State of Origin 2 coverage goes out Sportsnet in Canada.
This means you can also watch online thanks to its Sportsnet+ streaming service (from $29.99 per month / $249.99 per year). And that one See NRL the platform shows the fixture.
If you already subscribe to these services but are located outside of Canada, download a VPN and watch NSW vs QLD as if you were back home.
How to watch State of Origin Game 2 live streams in Australia
In Australia, State of Origin Game 2 is free to air Channel 9 and via 9Now streaming service.
All you need is an account. Register here!
If you’re out of Australia but still want to tune in, explore The VPN route above which will help you access your accounts anywhere.
What is the start time for State of Origin Game 2?
State of Origin Game 2 starts at 8.05pm AEST / 11.05am BST / 6.05am ET / 3.05am PT on Wednesday 17 June.
What are the State of Origin Game 2 teams?
New South Wales team: 1. James Tedesco, 2. Brian To’o, 3. Tolutau Koula, 4. Kotoni Staggs, 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase, 6. Mitchell Moses, 7. Nathan Cleary, 8. Payne Haas, 9. Reece Robson, 10. Mitchell Barnett, 11. Dylan Hudson, 11. Yeo
Bench: 14. Cameron Murray, 15. Victor Radley, 16. Addin Fonua-Blake, 17. Apisai Koroisau, 18. Ethan Strange, 19. Jack Bostock
Reserve: 20. Haumole Olakau’atu
Queensland team: 1. Kalyn Ponga, 2. Selwyn Cobbo, 3. Robert Toia, 4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, 5. Jojo Fifita, 6. Cameron Munster, 7. Sam Walker, 8. Thomas Flegler, 9. Harry Grant, 10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, 11. Cotter
Bench: 14. Max Plath, 15. Lindsay Collins, 16. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, 17. Trent Loiero, 18. Reece Walsh, 19. Murray Taulagi
Reserve: 20. Heilum Luki
What is NSW vs QLD head-to-head?
Queensland have won 25 State of Origin series and New South Wales 17. Two series have ended in all squares.
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