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.
5. Darcy Smith (Roosters)
Another Australian Schoolboy, Smith, has progressed steadily as a leader and captained the Roosters in the SG Ball this season, guiding the club to the first repeat championship in this age group for over a decade.
The Kincumber junior has been the driver of standards for the Roosters SG Ball side over the last two seasons. He runs some of the best lines of a backrower of his standing in the country, plus backs it up with strong carries and determined defence.
Smith has already made the jump to higher honours, playing in the NSW Cup for the Roosters. Although there have been some defensive lapses in the big jump from U/19 to open age, Smith is a class prospect who has been earmarked for bigger things.
