The State of Origin arena is poised for a shake-up, with new eligibility rules opening the door for a wave of previously excluded players. Among those eager to compete are Cronulla Sharks enforcers Addin Fonua-Blake and Briton Nikora, both of whom have publicly expressed their desire to represent either New South Wales or Queensland.
The rule change, announced earlier this month, allows players who have represented Tier One nations – such as New Zealand and England – to become eligible for Origin selection, provided they meet certain residency criteria. This development has sparked considerable excitement among players who previously believed an Origin jersey was beyond their reach.
Fonua-Blake, a three-time Dally M Prop of the Year, was previously ineligible due to a single Test appearance for New Zealand in 2017. However, having lived in Australia since the age of five, and with his early years spent in Brisbane before moving to Sydney, he is now firmly committed to representing New South Wales. “I’m 100 per cent (NSW),” Fonua-Blake stated. “When you watch how brutal it (State of Origin) used to be, that’s the game I fell in love with. Big rivalries like that, it’s something in sport people love and to be a part of it would be a great feeling.”
The 30-year-old acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the need to earn his place in the team. “While I’m available now, I still haven’t made the team, I’m still going to have to work hard and try and get a look in… It’s another challenge I can try and tick off.” He also expressed his admiration for current NSW forward Payne Haas, describing him as a “generational talent” and someone he would relish the opportunity to play alongside.
Nikora’s situation is slightly different. Born in New Zealand but moving to the Gold Coast at the age of nine, he qualifies for Queensland. He is equally enthusiastic about the prospect of representing the Maroons. “If it comes, I won’t back down,” Nikora said. “I’ll be keen and if he (QLD coach Billy Slater) wanted to have a chat with me and what not, yeah, I’d put my hand up for it straight away. Of course I want to put my hand up for Origin. That’s the biggest thing in this sport.”
Nikora’s connection to Queensland runs deep, with his schooling and the majority of his family residing on the Gold Coast. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities Australia has provided, solidifying his commitment to the state. “I did all my schooling up there (Gold Coast), my mates are all up there. My whole family moved over here to get an opportunity. I’ve always been grateful to Aussie and the state. I’m obviously a Queenslander.”
The eligibility change extends beyond Fonua-Blake and Nikora. Players like Victor Radley, who has represented England, are also now in contention for Origin selection. The new rules are intended to inject fresh talent into the interstate series and provide a pathway for players who may have previously felt excluded.
Fonua-Blake, who now represents Tonga internationally, previously felt a sense of regret at being unable to pursue an Origin career. “At the time I wished I’d been able to (play for NSW) but it was a while ago so I just got on with my life and just focused all my energy on club footy.” Now, with the rules altered, that opportunity has been rekindled.
The impact of this rule change is not limited to individual players. It also has broader implications for the international game, potentially allowing players to represent both their adopted country and their nation of birth without compromising their Origin eligibility. This could lead to a more dynamic and competitive international landscape.
The upcoming State of Origin series promises to be particularly intriguing, with the potential for new faces and intensified rivalries. Both Fonua-Blake and Nikora are determined to make their mark, and their inclusion would undoubtedly add another layer of excitement to the already fiercely contested arena. The prospect of these two former New Zealand teammates facing off against each other – Fonua-Blake for the Blues and Nikora for the Maroons – is a compelling narrative that will captivate fans across the country.
As the season progresses, the focus will undoubtedly shift to team selection and the strategies employed by both NSW and Queensland coaches. However, one thing is certain: the State of Origin landscape has been irrevocably altered, and the 2026 series is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory.