Legends Who Bridged the Gap Between State of Origin and Super League
Unveiling a Dream 13 of Rugby League Greats
Ahead of the 2024 State of Origin series, we delve into the archives to remember some of the greats of the game who have featured in both the Origin arena and Super League. Only a handful of players have achieved this remarkable feat, but among them are some of the all-time rugby league legends.
Starting at Fullback: Matt Bowen
The electrifying Matt Bowen spent two successful seasons with the Wigan Warriors, guiding them to Old Trafford in both campaigns, despite falling short on each occasion. Bowen’s flair and game-breaking ability made him a fan favorite during his time in Super League.
In the Three-Quarter Line
Imposing figure of Matt King, the former Warrington Wolves star earned 10 caps for Australia and 9 appearances for New South Wales. King was a dominant presence for the Wire, scoring over a try per every two games during his 100-plus appearances and helping the club win the Challenge Cup in 2009 and 2010.
Joining King in the centers is the incomparable Greg Inglis. While his Super League stint with Warrington Wolves was brief, Inglis’ overall career achievements, including 32 Origin appearances for the dominant Queensland Maroons, cement his status as one of the greatest players of his generation.
At Stand-Off: Jamie Lyon
The enigmatic Jamie Lyon, the St Helens legend, arrived in Super League with significant pedigree, having already earned 5 Origin caps for New South Wales. Lyon would go on to win the prestigious Man of Steel award in his debut season, before playing a pivotal role in the Saints’ treble-winning campaign in 2006.
On the Wing: Brett Dallas
The prolific Brett Dallas, the former Wigan Warriors flyer, earned 10 Origin caps for Queensland and 5 appearances for Australia, showcasing his world-class abilities during a seven-year stint in the Super League, where he scored over 100 tries for the Warriors.
In the Halves
The legendary Allan Langer, Langer’s move to Warrington Wolves in 2000 made him the only player in history to be selected for Origin while plying his trade in the English competition. The Queensland and Australian great silenced his doubters by leading the Maroons to victory in the 2001 series decider.
Alongside Langer at scrum-half is another Immortal of the game, Andrew Johns. Although Johns only made 3 appearances for Warrington Wolves, his pedigree, including over 20 Origin and Test caps, ensures his inclusion in this Dream 13.
In the Front Row
The imposing figure of Mark O’Meley, the former New South Wales and Australia representative, spent four successful seasons with Hull FC, establishing himself as one of the club’s finest imports of the modern era.
At Hooker: Danny Buderus
The highly-decorated Danny Buderus, the Leeds Rhinos legend, earned over 20 caps for both New South Wales and Australia, and played a pivotal role in the Rhinos’ 2011 Super League triumph.
Rounding Out the Pack
The controversial but undoubtedly talented Willie Mason, the former New South Wales and Australia forward, had a brief but memorable stint with Hull KR, before later returning to Super League with Catalans Dragons.
In the second row, we have the legendary Steve Menzies, the Bradford Bulls and Catalans Dragons star, who was capped 20 times by New South Wales and left an indelible mark on the game, playing until the age of 40.
Completing the Dream 13 is Craig Fitzgibbon, the former Hull FC forward was a mainstay of the Sydney Roosters NRL outfit, earning 19 Australia caps and 11 Origin appearances for New South Wales before finishing his career in England.
This star-studded Dream 13 showcases the exceptional talent that has bridged the gap between the State of Origin arena and the Super League competition over the years.
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