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MCG lands State of Origin series opener

A view of the MCG from the top tier during Game 1 of the 2018 State of Origin series. Robert Prezioso/Getty Images

State of Origin will return to the MCG this year with the series to kick off in the Victorian capital on Wednesday, June 9.

It will be the first time an Origin game has been played at the famed venue since game one of 2018, and 10th time Melbourne has hosted a clash between traditional rivals Queensland and NSW.

Suncorp Stadium will host an Origin game for just the second time on a Sunday, when game two is played on June 27, before the series concludes at Sydney's Stadium Australia on Wednesday, July 14.

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo on Monday said the game was committed to showcasing rugby league to as many people as possible in a COVID-safe environment.

"We're excited to be taking Australia's biggest sporting brand to Melbourne for the 10th time,'" he said.

"The last year has been incredibly challenging for Victorians with the extended lockdowns and challenges.

"We're delighted to be bringing Ampol State of Origin back to the city."