The 2025 Ampol State of Origin series kicks off May 28 with Game I live from Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium—and Channel 9 is going all-in on coverage across linear and streaming.
Channel 9HD and 9Now will broadcast the match live and free in all markets from 7:00 PM AEST (with staggered times for Adelaide and Perth), delivering one of the biggest annual ratings plays in Australian television. This year’s series opener carries added weight: the Queensland Maroons return home looking to reset after their 2024 defeat, while New South Wales arrives with momentum, a fresh captain, and Laurie Daley back at the helm.
For Queensland, coach Billy Slater has key names back on the paddock—Cameron Munster and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui return from injury to bolster a side led by veteran halfback Daly Cherry-Evans. New South Wales counters with a star-stacked lineup featuring Nathan Cleary, Latrell Mitchell, and new Blues captain Isaah Yeo.
The network’s Wide World of Sports coverage will be anchored by James Bracey, with commentary and analysis from league heavyweights Andrew Johns, Cameron Smith, and Brad Fittler. Sideline reporting comes via Danika Mason, Allana Ferguson, and a rotating crew of Origin alumni.
Beyond the main event, Nine is stacking the schedule with shoulder content across linear, digital, and podcast platforms. That includes build-up specials like 100% Footy and Freddy and The Eighth, plus longform storytelling through The Billy Slater Podcast and Stories of Origin.
9Now will also roll out interactive streaming features, including Player Cams (Kalyn Ponga and Nathan Cleary), Spider Cam footage, and a 20-minute mini-match recap after the final whistle. Viewers can expect access inside both camps with live crosses to coaches and even a rolling feed from the Queensland team bus hosted by Johnathan Thurston.
State of Origin I airs Wednesday, May 28 at 7:00 PM AEST on Channel 9HD and 9Now.
