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The NRL has announced the venues that will host its 2021 State of Origin series, with the Melbourne Cricket Ground to host the series opener, Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium to stage the second match and Sydney’s ANZ Stadium to be the scene for the series finale.

Returning to its traditional mid-season slot after last year's series was played after the end of NRL season, the MCG will host its 10th State of Origin match, and its first since 2018, on 9th June.

Suncorp Stadium will host game two on Sunday 27th June, with game three at ANZ Stadium on 14th July.

Introducing the timetable, NRL Chief Executive, Andrew Abdo stated “we’re excited to be taking Australia’s biggest sporting brand to Melbourne for the 10th time.

"The last year has been incredibly challenging for Victorians with the extended lockdowns and challenges. We’re delighted to be bringing Ampol State of Origin back to the city. It will give fans an exceptional live sports experience, and bring interstate visitors back to the hotels and restaurants."

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula expressed his satisfaction at welcoming State of Origin back to the MCG, noting "this is a win for all sports fans and we’ll work with the NRL to ensure that Melbourne puts on a spectacular show while protecting the health of the wider community."

State of Origin has been played at the MCG in 1994, 1995, 1997, 2015 and 2018. In 2015, it set a new State of Origin attendance record with a crowd of 91,513 watching NSW defeat Queensland in the second march of the three game series.

Tickets for all three matches are now on sale.

Image credit NRL Media.

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