Brisbane Lions stalwart Dayne Zorko has launched a pointed critique of the Australian Football League's decision to revive the State of Origin concept, expressing significant reservations about the fixture's inclusivity and scheduling. The highly anticipated match, set for February 14 at Perth's Optus Stadium, will see Western Australia face Victoria in a contest that has already sold out all tickets.
Zorko Questions the Relevance and Inclusivity of the Clash
Speaking to SEN Queensland, the 35-year-old Lions veteran, who has played 304 games for the club since his 2012 debut, openly questioned the relevance of the upcoming interstate clash. Zorko argued that the current format excludes many of the code's premier talents simply based on their state of origin, limiting participation to players from only two states.
'I understand that Victoria and WA are probably the biggest drawcards, but why not give everyone the opportunity?' Zorko posed. 'If you're going to do it, allow everyone to play over that weekend, make it like a little carnival, that's the way I would have done it.'
Undecided on Viewing and Concerns Over Timing
When asked if he would tune in to watch the match, Zorko admitted he remains 'probably undecided at the moment.' Beyond inclusivity concerns, the two-time AFL premiership winner and former Lions captain (2018-2022) also pointed to the timing of the fixture, scheduled before the regular season commences.
'I guess from the players' point of view, when else can you possibly have it if it's not at the start of the season?' he noted, suggesting that players would likely prefer to preserve their mid-season bye rather than participate in an additional football match amid an already demanding 23-round schedule.
Historic Rivalry Returns Amid Controversy
This upcoming match marks the return of elite-level State of Origin football for the first time in over a quarter of a century, reviving the historic Western Australia versus Victoria rivalry. It represents the first Origin-style encounter since a Bushfire Relief exhibition game in 2020, generating considerable excitement among many supporters despite Zorko's reservations.
The sold-out event is scheduled to commence at 4:40pm AEDT on February 14, promising a significant spectacle at Optus Stadium. However, Zorko's comments highlight a growing debate about how representative football should be structured in the modern AFL era, balancing tradition with broader participation opportunities for players across all states.
