Australian Rugby League Commission Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said the introduction of an Under 20s Origin reflected the status of the game’s elite junior competition.

“The NRL Under 20's Cup is unrivalled in Australian sport as both a pathway for our junior stars on the field and for the career and education opportunities it provides for them as well,” Mr Gallop said.

“It has captured the imagination of fans and already this year has set new ratings records on Fox Sports.

“To see it provide the platform for an Under 20s State of Origin concept underlines the impact it has had on our game.”

NSW VB Blues coach, Ricky Stuart added: “I wrote a column when this competition was in its first year saying how exciting it was and how I thought it could develop into a representative pathway.

“To see that become a reality is exciting for our game and exciting for the future of State of Origin.

“Rugby League provides the best pathway possible for elite juniors to progress from the 16s and 18s ranks, through the 20s and on to the NRL and this will just add an exciting new dimension to that pathway.”

Both state teams will play for the Darren Lockyer Shield.

U/20's State of Origin Teams:

Coaches:

NSW: Dean Pay (Melbourne Storm)
Queensland: Kevin Walters (Melbourne Storm)