The playing of the Australian national anthem before State of Origin games continues to be a heavily discussed off-field matter.
Will the national anthem be played before State of Origin matches in 2022?
There is yet to be any official confirmation, but as it stands, the Australian national anthem will be played before all three of this year's State of Origin games.
The anthem was sung before every match last year, in line with the decision made by the NRL to include it in the pre-match ceremony.
Why did the NRL backflip on its anthem decision?
Ahead of the 2020 State of Origin series, the NRL backflipped on its decision not to play the national anthem.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo initially indicated that it would instead be reserved for Test matches, ANZAC Day games, and the NRL grand final.
However, in a change that occurred in a matter of hours, ARLC Chairman Peter V'landys explained the call to revert to having the national anthem played.
“Our decision not to play the anthem was never about politics. We have always been committed to the anthem as shown at the Grand Final last weekend," V'landys said.
“The original decision not to play the anthem at Origin was about the rivalry and tribalism associated with the Origin Series.
“However, having listened to the public response and given the strong national unity in fighting the COVID pandemic together, the Commission has decided it is important to ensure that unity continues.
“We have always been a Commission that listens to our fans. We have heard the message and acted accordingly.”
When and where is Origin Game 1?
For the first time since 2020, State of Origin will be returning to Sydney's Stadium Australia (currently known as Accor Stadium).
The venue last hosted a series-opener in 2016 and is sure to welcome a packed house this time around, with New South Wales having won three of the past four series.
The Blues will go into the match on June 8 with plenty of confidence - they have won 19 of the 29 Origin matches at the venue.
