Fresh push for AFL State of Origin return as Nat Fyfe opts in for Western Australia
It's been 20 years since the last AFL state of origin clash and there's a fresh push to revive the glory days of representative footy.
WA Premier Mark McGowan has taken to social media proposing the idea of WA stars including Nat Fyfe, Nic Naitanui, Lance Franklin and Patrick Cripps teaming up at Optus Stadium.
"I think it'd be the best thing to happen to Australian Rules to have state of origin come back," Mr McGowan said.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews accepted the challenge but was at odds over the venue and took to his Twitter account to issue a reply.
The AFL has not played a State of Origin series since 1999 when Victoria prevailed over South Australia Getty
"You're on. But Victoria's star players (Dusty, Danger and The Bont) will draw 100 thousand fans, so we'd better see you Sandgropers at the G," Mr Andrews tweeted.
The debate has reignited ahead of the first ever NRL origin match in Perth at Optus Stadium.
The idea to bring State of Origin back to the AFL has been kicked around for years now - but the Premier is serious in this push.
Mark McGowan says the State Government is prepared to work a deal with the AFL to pay players for Origin appearances if that what it takes.
Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe has put his hand up to represent Western Australia AAP
"We'd be prepared to work with the AFL if that was what's required to get this exciting event particularly to Western Australia." Mr McGowan said.
Queensland and New South Wales players receive 30 thousand dollars per match to represent their states.
Fremantle Dockers captain Nat Fyfe told Nine News, "If the players were paid, yes I would (play)".
Dockers teammate Michael Walters says he'd be interested if it came back.
But for now, Rugby League owns state of origin.
