Sydney Roosters fullback Anthony Minichiello has backed teammate Todd Carney as the man to provide the spark for NSW.

Willie Tonga has been hailed for producing one of Queensland's bravest State of Origin efforts of all-time.

Darren Lockyer celebrated his record-equalling State of Origin appearance by laying on the match-winning try last night.

Queensland are in the box seat to win a sixth straight State of Origin title after defeating New South Wales in game one in Brisbane on Wednesday night.

A sell-out crowd of more than 52,000 will be on hand when this year's State of Origin series gets underway tonight.

Whether the Maroons' unprecedented State of Origin dominance will change tonight remains to be seen.

He's not yet an immortal and he doesn't have a statue at Suncorp Stadium like King Wally.

Parramatta star Jarryd Hayne says he's confused by his shock omission from the NSW State of Origin team.

Canberra Raiders star Josh Dugan has won the NSW fullback spot ousting Jarryd Hayne for the opening State of Origin match.

State of Origin football has claimed another Kiwi scalp, St George Illawarra utility Kyle Stanley.

Jamie Soward gave NSW league coach Ricky Stuart another fine example of his consistency yesterday.

NSW coach Ricky Stuart has taken his first step towards turning State of Origin fortunes around by naming a "Blues in waiting" squad.