Des Houghton: State of Origin is dying and I think I know why

The NRL is messing with a magic formula by allowing games to be played in cities where rugby league is not that popular, writes Des Houghton. VOTE IN THE POLL AND HAVE YOUR SAY

I have a hunch that State of Origin may be dying, and I think I know why. The NRL has messed with the magic formula by allowing games to be played in “neutral” cities where rugby league is not the most popular football code.

Past Players Robert Farah, representing NSW, and Sam Thaiday, representing Queensland, at the Adelaide Oval. Picture: Sarah Reed / TLA

Origin should only ever be played in Sydney or Brisbane to fuel the rivalry between Queensland and NSW. Playing Game 1 in Adelaide on Wednesday night will be a mistake. It is a slap in the face for fans from Brisbane and Sydney who won’t be able to attend. It’s already having a negative impact.

I sense that interest in Origin this year is only lukewarm.

The NRL will slowly kill its supporter base if it keeps up this idiocy.

Origin is grand theatre with talent and bravery and treachery all on show.

The NRL admits there will be thousands of seats left unsold for Wednesday’s clash. That says it all.