State of Origin Game II: Everything you need to know

New South Wales can regain the men's State of Origin shield on Wednesday night, as Game II of the series is played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The Blues came from 20 points down to defeat Queensland in Game I, with the sending off of Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga the critical turning point in the match.

The Maroons must win to keep the series alive for the final match of the series, which will be held in Brisbane.

Here is what you need to know before kick-off of Game II this Wednesday, June 17.

Where can I watch State of Origin Game II?

The Nine Network has the broadcast rights to the State of Origin series.

Game II will be televised on Channel Nine and streamed online via 9Now.

You can follow the action wherever you are on the ABC Sport live blog.

You can listen to the ABC Sport live call with commentator Andrew Moore, with expert analysis by Luke Lewis, Matthew Elliot and John Gibbs, plus Ian Cohen.

What time is State of Origin Game II kick-off?

Here is when the kick-off is scheduled in your location.

8:05pm: NSW, Queensland, ACT, Victoria, Tasmania, Papua New Guinea

7:35pm: South Australia, Northern Territory

6:05pm: Western Australia

10:05pm: New Zealand, Fiji

11:05pm: Samoa, Tonga

12:05am: Cook Islands

What happened in Game I?

New South Wales pulled off the largest comeback in State of Origin, overcoming a 20-point deficit to win 22-20 at Stadium Australia in Sydney.

Queensland raced out to a 20-0 lead in the first half, and led 20-6 at half-time.

But the defining moment of the match came in the 57th minute when Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga was sent off for a shoulder charge that made contact with the head of Blues winger Tolutau Koula.

The visitors were down to 12 men for the remaining 23 minutes, desperately trying to hold on to their 14-point lead.

But the Blues would score three tries, including a stunning individual effort from fullback James Tedesco in the 79th minute, to steal the win.

Where is State of Origin Game II being played?

Game II of the series will be played in neutral territory, although history suggests the Blues will feel right at home.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is the location of Game II, hosting a State of Origin match for the first time since 2024.

The MCG has hosted six State of Origin matches, with the Blues winning five of those.

1994: NSW def. Queensland 14-0

1995: Queensland def. NSW 20-12

1997: NSW def. Queensland 15-14

2015: NSW def. Queensland 26-18

2018: NSW def. Queensland 22-12

2024: NSW def. Queensland 38-18

Who is playing for the Blues and Maroons?

When and where are the other matches?