State of Origin Eligibility Expanded as NZ, England Players Get Green Light

The issue has come to a head in recent years due to the sheer volume of Pacific Islander-born players in the system.

Josh Papalii and Cameron Munster of the Maroons hold the State of Origin Shield after winning game three of the Men's State Of Origin series between New South Wales Blues and Queensland Maroons at Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia on July 9, 2025. Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

An ongoing debate over eligibility to play State of Origin—one of Australia’s most watched sporting events—has finally been put to bed as players from New Zealand or England will be allowed to participate.

On Feb. 16, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) made the surprise announcement, saying the move would modernise “State of Origin international eligibility rules to reflect the continued growth and global strength of Rugby League.”