Ashley Klein has been reinstated as the game’s best referee in the eyes of the NRL after he was appointed ahead of Adam Gee for the State of Origin series opener.
Gee officiated the NRL grand final last year between Penrith and Brisbane as he overtook Klein in the pecking order, however, the veteran has now reclaimed his position at the top.
Liam Kennedy has been appointed as the Bunker official for the opening game, with Gee overlooked for both jobs.
Touch judges David Munro and Chris Sutton will round out the officiating team.
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State of Origin referees: Ashley Klein appointed to officiate Game 1
Klein's appointment as the referee for the 2024 Origin opener was confirmed on Sunday evening.
His selection for the showpiece clash continues a remarkable record with him or Gerard Sutton having been part of Origin since the third and final game of the 2024 series.
The 44-year-old has been in the middle for 12 NRL matches this season.
State of Origin referees: Who will officiate Game 1 in Sydney?
| Fixture | Referee | Bunker Official | Touch Judges |
| New South Wales vs. Queensland | Ashley Klein | Liam Kennedy | David Munro and Chris Sutton |
