Since 1980, State of Origin rugby league has been a treasure trove of remarkable stories.

They involve mateship, resilience, winning against the odds. Pain, refusal to quit. Underdogs triumphing in the face of doubt. The most romantic elements of sport.

Stories of Origin features Origin greats Brad Fittler, Billy Slater, Paul Vautin, Wally Lewis, Phil Gould, Andrew Johns, Cameron Smith, Jonathan Thurston, Darren Lockyer, Paul Gallen, Greg Inglis, Ricky Stuart, Ben Ikin, Chris Close and many more. The podcast series taps into their experiences and unwraps new angles on their Origin careers.

You’ll hear some classic yarns from on the field and inside the dressing sheds. It is compulsory listening for any sports fan.

The first episode is available Friday 13 May 2022.

A Wide World of Sports and 9Podcasts production.

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Welcome to Stories of Origin, a podcast series that explores the rich history of NSW V QLD in the words of the warriors themselves.

We start our series at the beginning of the modern origin format. The birth of Origin.

In 1980, The Queenslander’s were sick of New South Wales stealing their players so they got them back for a one-off game in 1980. 42 years later, it’s never been bigger!

You’ll hear from The King - Wally Lewis, Paul Vautin and passionate Queenslander Chris Close. They talk about the passion instilled in the Maroons jersey and the growth of the interstate battle to the juggernaut it is today.

Hosted by Mathew Thompson.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Johns and Cameron Smith are the two best players of their generation.

On this episode of Stories of Origin, they sit down together to discuss their remarkable state careers.

Smith played a record 42 origin games for QLD. He was the key player in the Maroons remarkable dynasty.

Johns is regarded as the Blues greatest ever player. He is rugby league’s 8th immortal.

Hosted by Mathew Thompson.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.