NSW coach Brad Fittler and his Queensland rival Kevin Walters were on hand in Adelaide on Tuesday as the 2020 Holden State of Origin series was launched.
Game one of the series will be played at the picturesque Adelaide Oval on June 3, marking the first time Origin has gone to South Australia.
As Origin celebrates 40 years, Walters said it was imperative for the Maroons to land an early blow in their quest to stop the Blues from achieving a three-peat.
"It will be so important to get off to a good start to the series so game one will be vital for us to set us up for what I'm sure will be another incredibly competitive series," Walters said.
"I've had a look at Adelaide Oval previously and I can't wait to see Origin showcased in such a magnificent arena.
"It is always great to be able to grow the game in areas which have not yet witnessed the Origin spectacle so this will be another important step forward for the game."
Origin coaches excited for Adelaide
Fittler noted that NSW have won both matches at neutral venues over the past two years – 2018 in Melbourne and 2019 in Perth – en route to the ultimate glory.
"Having the support of the Blatchys Blues in Adelaide is really important too and we hope our fans make the journey to create a sea of blue like they did in Perth last year where the Blatchys Blues effect was a significant factor in our success," Fittler said.
NRL head of football Graham Annesley and South Australian premier Steven Marshall were also present for the launch.
Tickets are now on sale for NRL club and state members. Tickets will go on sale for the general public at 10am tomorrow (February 5).
The Bennett factor to help Latrell
Tickets are available for all three matches at nrl.com/tickets.
