Queensland has maintained remarkable consistency in selecting its State of Origin team for the 2024 series, naming largely unchanged line-ups for the first two games. Only one adjustment has been made between Games 1 and 2—a rarity that has occurred just four times in Origin history, with previous instances in 1991, 1995, and 2007. This marks only the second occasion since 2013 that Queensland has gone into consecutive games with the same starting side.
To date, the Maroons have used 18 players in this series, with four reserves yet to take the field, making a total of 19 potential players—a figure indicative of the squad’s stability. Historically, Queensland has enjoyed strong success when utilizing 20 or fewer players across a three-game series, winning 15 out of 19 such series with a single draw, and only suffering defeats in 1985, 1986, and 1997 under these conditions.
Standout performances have underscored Queensland’s campaign so far. Selwyn Cobbo delivered a hat-trick of tries in Game 2 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, becoming only the seventh Queenslander and 13th player overall to achieve a three-try haul in Origin history. He has made six line breaks in the series, approaching Greg Inglis’s Maroons record of eight set in 2009. Meanwhile, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scored his 13th try in just 12 Origin appearances, placing him equal third in all-time Origin try scorers alongside Valentine Holmes; only Greg Inglis (18) and Darius Boyd (17) exceed this tally. Notably, Tabuai-Fidow boasts the highest try-scoring rate in Origin history for players with a minimum of three games.
Captain Cameron Munster, now in his 23rd start at five-eighth, has climbed to fourth on the list of most-capped halves in Origin history, moving past Daly Cherry-Evans. Only Johnathan Thurston (37), Allan Langer (34), and Wally Lewis (30) have made more appearances in this position. Young halfback Sam Walker continues to impress, maintaining a streak of 12 consecutive successful goal kicks since his debut in Game 1 of the series; this places him just behind Nathan Cleary and Valentine Holmes in the record books for goal-kicking consistency.
Tino Fa’asuamaleaui has emerged as a pivotal figure in decisive matches, boasting a perfect record by winning all three Origin deciders he has played in. Among Queensland players, nine have maintained a 100% win rate in four or more deciders, including veterans such as Sam Thaiday, Nate Myles, Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk, and Darius Boyd.
The Maroons’ starting line-up combines experience and emerging talent. At fullback, Kalyn Ponga remains a key attacking threat, with opposing New South Wales sides facing difficulty containing his pace and playmaking ability. Alongside him, winger Selwyn Cobbo continues his strong form, and young centre Robert Toia has displayed resilience against top-tier opponents. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, another centre, stands out for his scoring prowess, while Jojo Fifita, also on the wing, has justified his selection with impactful performances.
In the halves, Munster’s leadership and Walker’s accuracy provide Queensland with a potent playmaking combination. Up front, Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, and Fa’asuamaleaui form a formidable forward pack, blending physicality and skill. The back row and bench, including players such as Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter, and the recalled Patrick Carrigan, offer depth and versatility heading into the decisive stages of the series.
Queensland enters the final game with momentum and a well-established squad, seeking to secure a come-from-behind series victory for the second consecutive year under coach Billy Slater’s stewardship. The team’s cohesion, highlighted by minimal changes and strong individual performances, will be tested as New South Wales aims to disrupt their dominance in the series decider.
