Fittler backs overseas Origin series

As State of Origin returns to the MCG on Wednesday night, Brad Fittler says he'd like to see the contest taken overseas in the future.

NSW coach Brad Fittler says the sport has a duty to take State of Origin to new and overseas markets in a bid to grow the game.

Wednesday's series opener at the MCG kicks off at least a four-year run where one game of the three-match series will be taken to a neutral venue.

Perth will host a match in 2019, as will Adelaide in 2020 before the series returns to Melbourne in 2021 and 2025.

There are no venues locked in for the years between them, although there has been some suggestion in the past Origin clashes could be taken New Zealand or even further abroad.

There are also already plans in the works for the NRL to kick off next season on the west coast of USA, with the idea currently in the hands of broadcasters

And Fittler said he believed Origin was the right vehicle to push the game overseas.

"I've seen Origin games that are as good as any sport that I've ever seen on any stage," he said.

"I have no doubt the level the boys playing Origin at and the way they prepare I think is a testament to our game. It is our duty to parade it and show it off."

Fittler also argued that the introduction of the neutral game from this series on made for a fairer contest, rather than the rotation of two home games between states.

"The advantage of having two games on your home ground, where the game is at the moment is most probably too much of an advantage," Fittler said.

"If we can take the other game and show it off.

"If players prepare in the manner they have for the last 20 or 30 years, it is the best advertisement for our game, without doubt."

Fitter's argument was backed by Queensland coach Kevin Walters, who also bristled at the suggestion games should only be held in Sydney and Brisbane during the pre-game media conference at the MCG.

"Both teams are going to get at least one game in their home state which is fair," he said.

"And for neutral venue like here - what an opportunity for the players to be on MCG, it's an iconic stadium.

"They tell me it will be 80,000 here on Wednesday night, you tell me what player who doesn't want to run out in that atmosphere?"


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Source: AAP


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