South Australia is expected to feature in the 2027 State of Origin clash as a part of a deal which will see the state retain Gather Round, but there's speculation over their opponent.
State of Origin football was reborn at the start of the year, with Western Australia hosting Victoria at Optus Stadium.
Channel Nine's Braden Ingram is suggesting that SA will play representative football for the first time in 28 years, last coming at the MCG in 1999, defeating the Big V, as well as host the State of Origin in 2028 at Adelaide Oval.
“A new Gather Round contract will be signed by our state in the very near future," Ingram explained.
“I can tell you as part of the deal, South Australia will play State of Origin football for the first time in 28 years.
“Origin returned from its hiatus this year in Perth, and next year SA will get its shot. That clash set to be played interstate but South Australia will get the chance to again host Origin, likely in 2028 at Adelaide Oval.
“Andrew Dillon is jetting into town for the Showdown tomorrow, and while an announcement is incredibly close, league sources tell me tonight it won't come tomorrow despite plenty of speculation.”
The Vics won by 24 points over WA in February.
Earlier in April, South Australia has been reported to sign a three-year extension to retain Gather Round, which has been a large successful since its introduction in 2023.
It comes as Premier Peter Malinauskas is keen to build a boutique venue in the McLaren Vale wine region.
The AFL is also considering bringing in an AFLW representative clash during Gather Round going forward, whether that be a State of Origin in the women's competition or an Australia v Ireland clash.
