It’s mate against mate, and state against state… Rejoice rugby league fans – it’s that time of year when NSW take on Queensland, with game #1 kicking off tonight in… Adelaide? This series the Blues are the favourites, but it’s probably best to remind you that was also the case before Queensland ultimately took it out last year. Also going against NSW – superstar Latrell Mitchell was ruled out due to a calf injury and Nathan Cleary is in doubt with a tooth infection. That’s seen Queensland make some tactical changes. Also to note: Maroons veteran Dane Gagai was controversially overlooked by 2nd-year coach Billy Slater in favour of Dolphins young gun Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow. Other faces to watch out for in their Origin debuts are Dally M medallist Nicho Hynes, Tevita Pangai Junior and Hudson Young on the Blues side, and Reece Walsh for the Maroons. For all the action, it’s live on Nine from 8.05pm tonight.