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.
4. Tupou Francis (Broncos)
With Brisbane looking for forwards to filling the void that will be left by Payne Haas' impending departure, the answer might appear in their own backyard with Tupou Francis.
Francis was a skipper for the Burleigh side's Cyril Connell Cup side in 2025, scoring the match-winner in golden point for the Bears in the 2025 U/19 competition just a month after winning the U/17's competition for the same side and winning man of the match.
Already this season, Francis has made the jump to the QLD Cup with the Burleigh Bears, playing in three matches but making a significant impact in his moments on the field, consistently pushing his team up the field.
While an NRL debut is probably a step too far this season, he is one to definitely keep an eye on going forward for 2027-28 at the Broncos.
