Prior to game one there was growing concern about the long term future of State of Origin, many commentators were beginning to wonder if Queensland would ever win another series after three consecutive New South Wales victories.

Both Andrew Johns and Trent Barrett turned down coming out of retirement to play in the fixture[1] so eventually Brett Finch was selected to start at halfback in jersey no.

Game I was played at Telstra Stadium, Sydney, and won by New South Wales 17-16, following a late field goal by NSW late-choice halfback, Brett Finch.

Justin Hodges was ruled out of the Queensland side for game III after he re-tore his hamstring[8] and was replaced by Josh Hannay.

[9] After the heavy loss in game II the New South Wales selectors made five changes, bringing in Matt Cooper, Paul Gallen, Craig Gower, Luke O'Donnell and Ben Hornby as well as moving Matt King into the centres, Mark Gasnier to five-eighth and Luke Bailey into the starting side.