Hughes Rules Out State of Origin, Prioritising National Pride
Melbourne Storm’s star halfback, Jahrome Hughes, has declared he will not represent Queensland or New South Wales in the State of Origin series, even with recent changes to eligibility rules potentially opening the door for him. The dynamic playmaker, who was born in Wellington, New Zealand, has instead reaffirmed his commitment to playing for his country of birth, the Kiwis, or the Maori All Stars.
The National Rugby League (NRL) recently introduced a new regulation allowing players from tier-one nations – specifically England and New Zealand – to be eligible for Origin selection if they meet other established criteria. This move had sparked speculation about Hughes’ potential involvement, given his relocation to Queensland at a young age and his successful career in the Australian competition. However, Hughes himself has decisively put an end to any such conjecture.
Speaking on the popular 167 Podcast, alongside fellow Storm teammates Cameron Munster and Ryan Papenhuyzen, the former Dally M Medal contender outlined his firm stance. “I’ll give you this exclusive – I’m not gonna play Origin,” Hughes stated emphatically. “It doesn’t matter if I’m eligible or not. I would only play for a cash grab and I wouldn’t do that.”
Hughes elaborated on his deep-seated sense of national pride, explaining that the emotional connection to the Origin jersey simply isn’t there for him. He drew a clear distinction between the passion he feels for his heritage and the competitive spirit required for the intense Origin arena.
“I feel like Origin is such a good game or spectacle because they are so proud,” he continued. “You look at Mun [Cameron Munster], he is a proud Queenslander, he would die for that jersey. If I put a Queensland jersey on, I just wouldn’t have that same passion as if I put on the Kiwi or Maori jersey, or even a Storm jersey.”
This sentiment underscores a fundamental aspect of what makes State of Origin such a compelling event: the raw, unadulterated passion and fierce loyalty displayed by players representing their home states. Hughes’ decision highlights that for him, this passion is intrinsically linked to his national and cultural identity.
Hughes’ rugby league journey began in New Zealand, where he was born in Wellington. He later moved to Queensland in 2008, attending Palm Beach Currumbin High School. His professional NRL career kicked off with the Gold Coast Titans in 2013. After a brief hiatus, he returned to the competition with the North Queensland Cowboys in 2016 before finding a consistent home with the Melbourne Storm for the 2017 season.
Since joining the Storm, Hughes has blossomed into one of the game’s premier playmakers, playing a pivotal role in their 2020 NRL Grand Final victory. He has also represented New Zealand on 10 occasions, solidifying his international standing.
The potential financial incentive for playing in Origin is significant, with players typically earning around $90,000 across the three-game series. However, Hughes’ decision demonstrates that for him, financial gain is secondary to playing for a team and a cause that resonates with his deepest sense of identity and pride. His commitment to the Kiwi and Maori jerseys speaks volumes about his values and his unwavering loyalty to his heritage. This principled stand is likely to be respected by fans and players alike, reinforcing the unique and deeply personal significance of international representation in rugby league.
