Whilst the men and women have dominated the Origin arena in 2026, the next generation of players get their chance to strut their talents in the U-19 Origin arena at North Sydney Oval on Thursday night.
Since the fixture was introduced in 2022, the concept has produced Origin stars such as Ethan Strange, Casey McLean, Robert Toia, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki and Jojo Fifita, who are already representing their state on the biggest stage.
Also, the likes of Paul Alamoti, Jack Bostock, Toby Couchman, Jack Howarth, Jaxon Purdue and Jye Gray have become established first-graders in the NRL level after representing their respective states in the U/19 Origin arena since the fixture was introduced in 2022.
In preparation for the contest, we are looking at five prospects per state to keep a close eye on in the contest.
10. Diesel Hagan (Knights)
The son of Knights' NSW Women's Premiership coach Ben Hagan. Diesel Hagan has had quite the career revival, even at a young age.
His career was seemingly on the ropes, having gone all the way back to the local age Newcastle competition, but through sheer determination and hard work, he has earned his way into the NSW U19 squad.
A smart hooker, who can turn a game on a dime, his ability to create has been on full display across his 2026 season to date. He has a great sense of when to attack a game,ame whether he is starting or coming off the bench.
The Knights very quickly moved him into the NSW Cup upon the conclusion of the SG Ball season, and he hasn't missed a beat. His smart, intrinsic running game along with steel defence, makes him a must-watch hooker prospect coming through. Hagan will be joining the Knights' development list from next season, having been on the club's train-and-trial list this season.
