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Meninga: Big change they must make to eligibility rules
SEN • July 30th, 2025 2:44 pm
The NRL’s eligibility rules for State or Origin remains as polarising as international regulations, but Mal Meninga believes it’s important to separate the two with clearer definition.
This week saw former NSW captain and Sharks legend Paul Gallen slam the current international system, as he called for players to be obligated to choose the nation they want to represent as they are starting their professional career.
It would bring an end to a constant chopping and changing of minds among players – particularly those wishing to play internationally but also be in contention for Origin.
Currently players like Brian To’o, Stephen Crichton and Jarome Luai remain are eligible for the Blues because they have pledged themselves to Samoa – a tier two nation in the eyes of world rugby league.
However, English and New Zealand talent who qualify for Origin based on the age they started playing in any of the two states, must choose between the three-game series and their country.
It’s an unfair situation, according to Meninga who says the rules have not evolved with the game and the money on offer for internationals is a drawback.
“The demographics of our game has changed, hasn't it?,” he told SENQ Breakfast.
"We've got over 50 per cent of Pacific Islanders and Kiwis playing in the competition.
“It has markedly changed from those old eligibility rules.
“The Origin players get paid really, really well, don't they?
“So as a player, when you start thinking about who you want to play for internationally, I think Origin becomes that beat that everyone wants because obviously it's got high profile, but also it pays very well.
“The monetary reward for playing for your country has to improve, and it has to match Origin.”
Regarding Gallen’s suggestion of making decisions before you start your professional career, Meninga added: “If you make a decision early in your career, well, then you have to make that decision based on equal payments.”
But when it comes to Origin eligibility, Meninga said we must “remove the tears” and maintain it as an Australian-only.
“If you're born, in Australia, that's when you can play Origin,” he said.
“I don't believe that if you come to Australia before the age of 13, that you're able to play for Queensland or New South Wales.
"That's my belief, no tears.
“They're two different games.
“From an eligibility point of view, State of State of Origin it's around being Australian.
“If you've got some other heritage then they make a choice about where they play from an international point of view.”
