Game II of the 2024 State of Origin series is poised to deliver another fiercely contested encounter at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night, with New South Wales making four significant personnel changes in a bid to level the series. Queensland, fresh off their Game I victory at home in Sydney, have opted for continuity, retaining the same 17 players who secured their home turf advantage. The Maroons now stand on the cusp of claiming consecutive Origin series for the first time since 2011-2012, should they triumph in Brisbane.
The Blues' decision to recall Josh Addo-Carr, Stephen Crichton, Ryan Matterson, and Mitchell Moses signals a clear intent to inject experience and attacking flair into their lineup. Addo-Carr's blistering pace on the wing is a welcome return, while Crichton's versatility in the centres and backrower Matterson's powerful running may provide the necessary edge. The return of Moses at halfback is perhaps the most anticipated move, with many believing his composed playmaking is crucial to unlocking Queensland's formidable defence. Coach Freddy Fittler acknowledged the challenge, stating, 'We know what we need to do. We've made a few adjustments, and we're confident these players can deliver on the big stage.'
New South Wales focus on their game plan ahead of the crucial second match. Credit: Sydney Daily News
Meanwhile, Queensland coach Billy Slater has emphatically backed his victorious Game I squad. The Maroons' ability to absorb pressure and capitalise on crucial opportunities in Sydney has instilled a strong sense of belief within the camp. Their defensive organisation, spearheaded by the likes of Reece Walsh at fullback and David Fifita in the forwards, proved suffocating against the Blues' attack. 'There's no reason to change a winning formula,' Slater commented earlier in the week. 'The boys earned it, and they know the job isn't done yet. Suncorp is our fortress.'
Maroons' Fortress Mentality
Suncorp Stadium has long been a feared venue for visiting teams, and Game II is no different. The deafening roar of the Queensland faithful is expected to provide an electric atmosphere, a factor often cited as the Maroons' '18th man'. Queensland's record at their home ground in recent Origin series has been dominant, and they will be looking to leverage this advantage to seal the series. The Blues, aware of the historical trends and the magnitude of the occasion, will need to start strongly and silence the crowd early to have any chance of success.
Blues' Backline Reinforcements
The return of Addo-Carr to the Blues' starting lineup is a strategic masterstroke, providing a much-needed injection of speed and X-factor on the wing. His combination with playmakers like Moses and Jarome Luai could prove decisive in breaking down Queensland's defensive wall. Moses' presence at No. 7 is also expected to bring greater structure and direction to the NSW attack, allowing Luai to play with more freedom in the second receiver role. Analyst and former NSW captain, Alex Johnson, noted, 'Moses brings a calmness and a kicking game that we've lacked at times. If he can control the tempo and give his outside backs opportunities, NSW will be a much bigger threat.' The inclusion of Crichton, who can cover multiple positions in the backline and forward pack, adds further flexibility to Fittler's options.