Rugby league’s first major instalment of interstate rivalry for 2015 arrives early next month when the XXXX Queensland Residents play New South Wales at one of Brisbane’s best suburban grounds.
Queensland Rugby League (QRL) today confirmed Tapout Energy Stadium, Langlands Park, as the venue for the representative match on Sunday, May 3.
For the first time, the annual clash featuring the leading players from the Intrust Super Cup and NSW Cup will be broadcast live into both Queensland and New South Wales.
The Channel 9 match heads an outstanding showcase of rugby league, with some of Queensland’s best young talent on show in the Cyril Connell Cup and Mal Meninga Cup state finals earlier in the day.
XXXX Queensland Residents coach Aaron Zimmerle would love to see a capacity crowd at the spectator-friendly venue.
“This game means a great deal to our state and in particular the players, coaches and fans involved in the Intrust Super Cup every week,” Zimmerle said.
“The skill of the players and the overall intensity of last year’s match really caught my eye from afar. I’m sure this year’s game will deliver on those fronts as well.”
A host of players signed NRL contracts following Queensland’s 24-16 victory last July, including Aaron Whitchurch, Davin Crampton, Shaun Nona, Todd Murphy and Blake Leary.
In recent years, Queensland’s State of Origin team has featured Residents graduates Daly Cherry-Evans and Matt Gillett.
Newly-appointed QRL Head of Football Neil Wharton has first-hand experience in these player pathways.
In 2003, Wharton coached a Queensland team featuring the likes of Scott Prince, Shane Perry, Craig Frawley, Barry Berrigan and David Seage to a comprehensive 36-12 win.
Wharton said this year’s XXXX Queensland Residents team would be announced on Sunday week.
“The start of the representative season is always an exciting time of the year,” Wharton said.
“A game of this stature at Langlands Park is the perfect way to get it rolling.
“We know the playing surface is second to none and the facilities are very good as well. All in all, we believe this venue will suit the type of atmosphere and match-day experience we’re looking for.
“We’re extremely grateful for the support we continue to receive from all of our Intrust Super Cup clubs.”
Representative program for Sunday, May 3 @ Tapout Energy Stadium, Langlands Park, Coorparoo:
U16 Cyril Connell Cup Final – 10am
U18 Mal Meninga Cup Final – 11.45am
Queensland v New South Wales – 1.40pm
*Coverage from 1.30pm on Channel 9/WIN/NBN
Admission:
Adults: $10.
Concession: $5.
Children free (under 18).
