Ethan Strange has emerged as the clear standout of the opening game in the 2026 State of Origin series, taking the early lead in our MVP race. Strange was voted man of the match by three of the four judges, with James Tedesco winning the top spot for the other list of five players.
Nathan Cleary and Sam Walker were the only other two players to feature across all four lists, and as a result, they sit in second and third overall. Selwyn Cobbo, Cameron Murray, Cameron Munster, Victor Radley and Hudson Young were the other players to feature for at least one judge in the comeback win for the Blues.
For each game of the 2026 State of Origin series, our voting panel consisting of Zero Tackle founder Matt Clements, journalist and writers Leo Twemlow and Dan Nichols, and me as editor, will vote on the games on a 5-4-3-2-1 basis to determine the State of Origin MVP.
Here are all the votes from Game 1.
Matt Clements
5. James Tedesco (New South Wales Blues)
4. Nathan Cleary (New South Wales Blues)
3. Ethan Strange (New South Wales Blues)
2. Sam Walker (Queensland Maroons)
1. Selwyn Cobbo (Queensland Maroons)
Dan Nichols
5. Ethan Strange (New South Wales Blues)
4. Sam Walker (Queensland Maroons)
3. Nathan Cleary (New South Wales Blues)
2. Selwyn Cobbo (Queensland Maroons)
1. Hudson Young (New South Wales Blues)
Scott Pryde
5. Ethan Strange (New South Wales Blues)
4. Nathan Cleary (New South Wales Blues)
3. Sam Walker (Queensland Maroons)
2. Cameron Murray (New South Wales Blues)
1. Selwyn Cobbo (Queensland Maroons)
Leo Twemlow
5. Ethan Strange (New South Wales Blues)
4. Nathan Cleary (New South Wales Blues)
3. Sam Walker (Queensland Maroons)
2. Cameron Munster (Queensland Maroons)
1. Victor Radley (New South Wales Blues)
Full leaderboard
Ethan Strange – 18 votes
Nathan Cleary – 15 votes
Sam Walker – 12 votes
James Tedesco – 5 votes
Selwyn Cobbo – 4 votes
Cameron Munster – 2 votes
Cameron Murray – 2 votes
Victor Radley – 1 vote
Hudson Young – 1 vote
Key Players and Their Contributions
Ethan Strange
Ethan Strange’s performance in the opening game was nothing short of exceptional. His ability to consistently make key plays and influence the outcome of the game earned him the admiration of three out of the four judges. This strong showing places him at the top of the MVP race, with 18 votes to his name. Strange’s impact on the field was evident throughout the match, and his leadership and skill were crucial to the Blues’ success.
Nathan Cleary
Nathan Cleary, another standout player, secured 15 votes in the first game. His consistent performance and strategic playmaking were recognized by the judges, who placed him in second place on the leaderboard. Cleary’s ability to control the tempo of the game and create opportunities for his teammates made him a vital asset for the Blues.
Sam Walker
Sam Walker received 12 votes in the first game, placing him in third position. His contributions on the field were significant, with his efforts earning praise from the judges. Walker’s versatility and determination were key factors in the Blues’ victory, and his performance was a highlight of the game.
James Tedesco
James Tedesco, who was named man of the match by one of the judges, received 5 votes. His performance was commendable, and he played a crucial role in the Blues’ comeback win. Tedesco’s ability to make critical plays and his leadership on the field were notable aspects of his contribution.
Selwyn Cobbo
Selwyn Cobbo received 4 votes in the first game. His performance was recognized by the judges, and he played an important role in the Blues’ success. Cobbo’s efforts on the field were a key factor in the team’s victory, and his contributions were acknowledged by the panel.
Other Notable Players
Cameron Murray
Cameron Murray received 2 votes in the first game. His performance was solid, and he contributed to the Blues’ success with his efforts on the field. Murray’s consistency and determination were valuable assets to the team.
Cameron Munster
Cameron Munster also received 2 votes in the first game. His performance was notable, and he played a crucial role in the Blues’ victory. Munster’s ability to make key plays and his leadership on the field were significant aspects of his contribution.
Victor Radley
Victor Radley received 1 vote in the first game. His performance was recognized by one of the judges, and he contributed to the Blues’ success with his efforts on the field. Radley’s efforts were a valuable addition to the team’s overall performance.
Hudson Young
Hudson Young received 1 vote in the first game. His performance was acknowledged by one of the judges, and he played a role in the Blues’ victory. Young’s efforts on the field were a positive contribution to the team’s overall performance.
