<P> The first calls for a state of origin selection policy in interstate rugby football came before the schism between the union and league codes eventuated in Australia . In 1900 a journalist known as' The Cynic' wrote in The Referee that star rugby player and recent immigrant to Queensland, Stephen Spragg, should be able to play for his home state of New South Wales . </P> <P> Since the beginning of Australian rugby league in 1908, an interstate competition between New South Wales and Queensland has been conducted from time to time . Until 1982 each team drew its players from the clubs based in that state . No consideration was given to the origins of the players themselves . </P> <P> The first of these interstate games was played at Sydney's Agricultural Ground on 11 July 1908, before Queensland had even commenced its club competition . New South Wales easily accounted for Queensland in a 43--0 victory . The local media were unimpressed . </P> <Dl> <Dd> There can be no doubt the NSW men are improving a good deal...They cannot be blamed for the farce, for it was nothing else . If the Australian team depends on Queenslanders to strengthen it, one is afraid it will be found wanting . They are quite the weakest lot of footballers I have even seen come down from Queensland . The play needs no detailed description as it was simply a practice match for NSW, and certainly did not advantageously advertise the new game . </Dd> <Dd> - The Sydney Morning Herald, 13 July 1908 </Dd> </Dl>

Where was the first state of origin held