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.
8. Carter Mareko (Roosters)
The Roosters are continuing their recent trend of developing from within. Despite the signing of Daly Cherry-Evans, growing fears that young halves prospects will get left behind, that hasn't stopped the emergence of Carter Mareko.
Having won the Harold Matthews Player of the Year last season with the Central Coast Roosters, the young gun backed that up in Sydney, claiming the SG Ball Player of the Year, guiding the Roosters to a top-four finish and scoring 119 points this season.
Unfortunately, he missed the finals series due to suspension and missed the chance to add to his growing scrapbook of junior achievements with a premiership pennant.
Mareko has since moved into Jersey Flegg and continued his development. His sharp running game and creativity with his passing and kicking make him a prospect that will have many Roosters fans happy.
