Queensland has kept its State of Origin title defence alive after a dominant second-half performance secured a 44-24 victory over New South Wales in Game Two at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on last night.

The Maroons overturned a 12-8 halftime deficit, producing one of the most devastating second-half displays in Origin history as they crossed for seven tries to level the 2026 series at 1-1.

In front of a record Origin crowd of more than 91,000 spectators at the MCG, Queensland exploded after the break, scoring 36 points in the second half to leave the Blues stunned and set up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium next month.

Winger Selwyn Cobbo was the standout performer, scoring a hat-trick as Queensland’s attack repeatedly exposed the Blues’ defence. Playmakers Cameron Munster and Sam Walker also played crucial roles, guiding the Maroons around the park and capitalising on New South Wales’ mistakes.

The Blues had looked on track to wrap up the series after taking a four-point lead into halftime, but they struggled to contain Queensland’s momentum after the break.

Discipline issues and handling errors proved costly, with a sin-bin to Kotoni Staggs further compounding New South Wales’ problems.

Queensland completed 39 of 42 sets compared with New South Wales’ 32 from 41, highlighting the Maroons’ control and efficiency throughout the contest.

The result means the 2026 State of Origin series will be decided in Game Three at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on July 8, where Queensland will have the advantage of a home crowd as they seek to retain the shield.