Queensland defeated New South Wales 44-24 in Game 2 of the 2026 State of Origin series at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on June 17, staging a second-half comeback to level the series [1, 2]. Selwyn Cobbo scored a hat-trick in the second half, powering Queensland's resurgence after trailing at halftime [1, 2].
New South Wales held a 12-8 lead at the break, but Queensland scored 36 points in the second half to take control of the match [1, 2]. In addition to Cobbo's three tries, second-half scorers for Queensland included Loiero, Fifita, Tabuai-Fidow and Collins [1].
Queensland captain Cameron Munster briefly left the field for a head injury assessment but returned to help steer the comeback [1]. New South Wales winger Mark Nawaqanitawase made his Origin debut and scored two tries [1, 2].
Sam Walker impressed for Queensland with perfect goal-kicking, converting seven tries from seven attempts and also slotting a penalty goal, finishing 100% accurate [1]. "It was really special to bounce back from such a tough loss in game one," Walker said. "I can't wait to get out there in Brisbane." [1]
The match attracted a record State of Origin crowd of 91,761 spectators, the highest ever attendance for the series [2].
The victory levels the 2026 State of Origin series at one win each ahead of the deciding Game 3, which is scheduled to be played in Brisbane on July 8 [1, 2].
