Under the previous criteria, anyone who had represented another Tier 1 nation (namely England or New Zealand) were disqualified from Origin selection, even if they had the met the other existing criteria such as being born or schooled in New South Wales or Queensland.
The ARLC has made a change upon reflection of the growth of the international game and to not hold back high profile players such as Kalyn Ponga, AJ Brimson and Victor Radley from representing other countries as well as their states of origin.
Ponga had previously turned down a New Zealand cap to remain eligible for Queensland, but the change will now enable him to do both.
Penrith Panther Casey McLean and Cronulla Shark Briton Nikora were two other players blocked from Origin selection due to their previous appearances for New Zealand.
“Rugby League has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that,” said ARLC chairman Peter V’landys.
“If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they’ve represented New Zealand or England at Test level.
“State of Origin is about where you’re from and what State you’re eligible for —not which country you represent internationally. If you’re eligible, you should be able to play for your State.
“Over 45 years, State of Origin has developed into something special, and we want the best players playing if they’re eligible.
“The Commission has a responsibility to grow both the international game and State of Origin, and this change strengthens both.”
Those players will be eligible if they fulfil the majority of the following criteria:
- Born in the state
- Father played for the state
- Majority of schooling and/or underage rugby league was played in that state
- Represented the state at underage grade such as a school championship