Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Kalyn Ponga sent off became the turning point in State of Origin game one, with the Queensland Maroons fullback dismissed for a shoulder charge on Tolu Koula at Accor Stadium on Wednesday night.

Queensland Maroons led New South Wales Blues 20-6 when Ponga came across in cover defence and made high contact as Koula broke down the left sideline.

For more State of Origin coverage, read Robbie Mortimer National Anthem Draws Heavy Criticism Before Origin Opener.

Ponga decision shocks Origin greats

Koula later left the field and failed his HIA, while referee Ashley Klein ruled the incident was serious enough for a send-off.

“It’s a head clash but he doesn’t even try and wrap his arm. I think they’ll rule this is a sin bin even though it’s head on head,” Maroons great Cam Smith said.

“It’s a shoulder charge that makes direct contact to the head. You have a duty of care, you’re off,” Klein said when directing Ponga from the field with 23 minutes remaining.

The decision stunned Blues legend Andrew Johns, who said the call was too harsh despite his New South Wales ties.

“I bleed blue but that Ponga decision is just outrageous,” he said in commentary.

Maroons great Cameron Smith was also surprised by the ruling.

“No way ... that’s remarkable,” Smith said on Channel Nine.

Blues seize late momentum

Ponga became the seventh player sent off in Origin history, leaving Queensland Maroons short-handed at a critical stage.

New South Wales Blues used the extra man to change the game’s rhythm, scoring three tries in the final 20 minutes to turn a 14-point deficit into a 22-20 win.

The result marked the greatest comeback in State of Origin history and gave New South Wales Blues a dramatic start to the series.

Fans can follow the series schedule through the official NRL website.