The NRL announced the Ampol State of Origin series is set to return to Adelaide Oval in 2023, following the first ever match at the venue in 2020.

The 2020 event at Adelaide Oval saw the venue ‘sell out’ due to COVID-19 restrictions, with 25,218 fans attending Game One, but the NRL hopes the 2023 event will bring in over 50,000 fans to the venue.

Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) commissioner, Peter Beattie, said South Australians had embraced Origin in 2020 and the support of the South Australian Government for rugby league was appreciated.

“We want to build on what we started last year,” Beattie said.

“The Adelaide Oval match was a great success.

“We had a capacity COVID crowd and the way the city embraced the Origin Series gives us every confidence of filling the venue in 2023.

“State of Origin is the most successful sporting brand in Australia which we now play in the five biggest capital cities in Australia.

“I want to thank (South Australia) premier, Steven Marshall for his support, he has been the strongest of advocated for securing this event.

“State of Origin will fill hotels and restaurants across Adelaide and inject millions into the local economy,” he said.

Marshall said the event would provide an estimated $15 million to local economy in 2023.

“It’s a great result for rugby fans, but also a big win for South Australian hotels, restaurants and cafes,” Marshall said.

“More than 20,000 interstate visitors are expected to visit Adelaide to help celebrate the big match, injecting an estimated $15 million into the South Australian economy.

“Last year’s NRL State of Origin game was a real hit and delivered a cracking game in front of more than 25,000 fans, including 4,000 from interstate.

“Events like these create jobs and vibrancy in our great city and it’s fantastic to be able to welcome interstate Blues and Maroons fans back to Adelaide,” he said.

This announcement comes after the NRL revealed Game One of the 2021 State of Origin series will return to Melbourne at the MCG.

NRL chief executive, Andrew Abdo, said the game was committed to showcasing rugby league to as many people as possible in a COVID-safe environment and the MCG represents an important opportunity to do that.

“We’re excited to be taking Australia’s biggest sporting brand to Melbourne for the 10th time,” Abdo 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.

“It will give fans an exceptional live sports experience and bring interstate visitors back to the hotels and restaurants,” he said.