The final match of the 2025 Ampol Women’s State of Origin series kicks off on Thursday night at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, and while the series winner is already decided, there’s still history on the line.
The NSW Blues are chasing a milestone that’s never been achieved before: a three-nil clean sweep.
Why the winner is already decided
After back-to-back wins, the Blues have determined the series result early.
On May 1st, they comfortably defeated the Queensland Maroons with a dominant 32-12 performance, following it up with another convincing victory in Game 2, scoring 26 points to QLD’s 6.
With both wins secured, NSW enters Game 3 with the shield in their hands.
First ever 3-0 in Women’s Origin history?
If John Strange's team wins tomorrow, it will mark the first time in Women’s Origin history that a team has swept the series three-nil. And that’s not just because it hasn’t been done – it’s because until very recently, it wasn’t even possible.
From 1999 to 2017, what we now know as Women’s State of Origin was played as a single annual fixture under the name “Women’s Interstate Challenge.” With only one game a year, there was no chance for comebacks or deciders.
In 2022, the NRL expanded the format to two games per season – a major step toward growing the women’s game. That momentum continued in 2024 when, for the first time, the series was extended to the full three matches, aligning with the men’s format.
That means fans have only had two seasons to experience the tension and drama of a best-of-three Women's Origin series. And tomorrow could bring the first true sweep.
More than just a dead rubber
While some may see Game 3 as a dead rubber, both sides have plenty to play for. For the Blues, it’s about cementing their dominance and earning a place in the history books. For the Maroons, it’s about pride and proving they can still match their rivals.
A big crowd is expected in Newcastle, continuing the trend of strong regional support for women’s rugby league.
Game 3 in Newcastle
The final game of the series this year will kick off at 7:45 pm AEST tomorrow (29.05) McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
MORE: Women's State of Origin: Confirmed Game 3 team lists