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.
2. Jackson Koina (Eels)
Having arrived at the Eels this season from the Broncos, Koina has been a terrific addition for the Eels in their forward pack throughout the junior pathways in season 2026.
He has been highly regarded by the club, and he was very quickly moved from SG Ball into the Jersey Flegg environment due to his immense talent. His effort areas across both sides of the ball scream volumes.
Koina has a terrific motor on him and will be a valuable asset for the Eels pack going forward. He moves well in the middle for a mobile pack. He has a distinct ability to engage the line in the middle third and scrambles hard in defence.
With the Eels pack facing a revamp with Junior Paulo fast approaching the wrong side of 30, the young forward will be one to keep an eye on for the Parramatta club, who love to invest in their junior pathways.
