Queensland second-rower Kurt Capewell did not hold back in his self-criticism after the Maroons lost the State of Origin decider 30-12 at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night. The 32-year-old veteran, playing his 16th Origin match, described his performance in blunt terms.
“It was a shit game to have a shit game in,” Capewell repeated several times post-match. “Personally, I wasn’t happy with how I played. The handling errors disappoint me the most coming out of our own end. They put pressure on all my teammates, so it’s something I’m not proud of.”
A Performance That 'Burns'
Capewell said his display “burns me,” reflecting his high standards. He has been a key contributor to Queensland series wins in 2020, 2022, and 2025, but on Wednesday night he was below his best. He was replaced in the 51st minute as the Maroons chased points.
The loss means Queensland have now lost back-to-back Origin deciders at Suncorp Stadium, becoming the first Queensland team to do so. It was also their third consecutive defeat at their spiritual home. “It hurts,” Capewell admitted.
No Excuses for Favourites Tag
Capewell dismissed suggestions that Queensland struggled under the pressure of being favourites. “I wouldn’t blame any of our actions on that. We didn’t play well, they did and they won. It’s as simple as that,” he said.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The Maroons will have a chance to redeem themselves in the 2027 Origin series opener, again scheduled for Brisbane. “Next year is a new year and Queensland will be ready to take it on from the get-go in game one,” Capewell said.
The second game of the 2027 series will be played at Auckland’s Eden Park, marking the first time an Origin match has been held in New Zealand. “I think it’s a great opportunity to showcase what Origin is over in New Zealand. There are plenty of fans and supporters over there, so I think it’ll be great,” Capewell said. He lives in Auckland and plays for the Warriors, so he knows how the inaugural trans-Tasman Origin will be received.
Return to Club Land
Capewell will now return to his second-placed club side, the Warriors, to try and inspire a run to a maiden NRL title. “That’s the plan. We’ll wash tonight off, go back to club land and get the Wahs winning,” he said.
