AFL considering a State of Origin revival to support victims of Australia’s bushfire crisis

More than 20 years after the last State of Origin match was played, the AFL is considering reviving the concept to support victims of Australia’s bushfire crisis. And the game’s biggest names are queuing up to play.

State of Origin could be revived in aid of the devastating bushfire crisis that has engulfed the country.

The Herald Sun last night revealed that the AFL is considering staging a game of representative football among current AFL stars among a raft of initiatives on the table to support bushfire-ravaged communities in Victoria and beyond.

The league – which has spent recent days formulating its support for those affected by the extensive fires in East Gippsland, the Alpine region of Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia – has debated a range of fundraising initiatives.

A State of Origin match – the likes of which has not been played for almost 21 years – between two teams comprised of current AFL players has emerged as a frontrunner and could be held as soon as next month.

The potential move has been met with early support from some of the game’s biggest names, with AFL Players’ Association president and Geelong champ Patrick Dangerfield quick to back the fundraiser.

“Let’s make it happen!” Dangerfield wrote on Twitter after the Herald Sun last night revealed the possible Origin revival.

Collingwood skipper Scott Pendlebury said “bring it back”, while star ruckmen Max Gawn and Nic Naitanui – who could potentially line-up against one another – were also quick to put their hand up for any Origin game.

The AFL confirmed on Tuesday that discussions were continuing for short-term fundraising initiatives, along with long-term support to help communities and regional clubs impacted by the fires.

It is understood Marvel Stadium is being considered as a venue for the representative clash with a potential match date of February 28.

On Wednesday morning the League said it was considering an ‘All-Stars’ match, perhaps similar to the one staged in 2008.