The Western Australian State of Origin squad has received a significant boost with the addition of seven more AFL stars, setting the stage for a blockbuster clash against South Australia at Optus Stadium.
New Additions Bolster WA's Lineup
The selection panel, led by coach Justin Longmuir, confirmed the latest inclusions on Tuesday. The new players bring a wealth of experience and talent to the squad, which is preparing for the highly anticipated match on Friday, May 30.
Headlining the new additions are Brisbane Lions defender Brandon Starcevich and his teammate, versatile utility Callum Ah Chee. They are joined by Melbourne Demons premiership player Trent Rivers, adding serious grunt and skill to the midfield and backline options.
The other four players called up are:
- Liam Baker (Richmond)
- Sam Switkowski (Fremantle Dockers)
- Bailey Williams (West Coast Eagles)
- Jai Culley (West Coast Eagles)
This latest group joins the initial 12 players named last week, which included big names like Jeremy McGovern, Andrew Brayshaw, and Liam Ryan.
Building a Competitive Squad
The expanded squad now stands at 19 players. The final team of 23, plus emergencies, will be announced closer to the match date. Coach Longmuir and his team face the enviable but difficult task of whittling down this talented group to a final match-day lineup.
The State of Origin clash for charity is a revival of the traditional interstate rivalry, with all proceeds supporting the Childhood Cancer Association. It promises to be a major event on the Australian football calendar, showcasing the best homegrown talent from each state outside of the AFL club commitments.
The match will be played at Optus Stadium in Perth, giving local fans a rare opportunity to see a star-studded WA team take the field together. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as fans rally behind their state in a format that holds a special place in football history.
What This Means for the Showdown
The addition of players like Starcevich and Rivers significantly strengthens WA's defensive structure and midfield run. Callum Ah Chee's flexibility allows him to impact the game at either end of the ground or through the middle. The inclusions of Baker and Switkowski add fierce pressure and tackling intensity, which will be crucial against a skilled South Australian outfit.
With the squad now featuring a strong mix of key position players, elite midfielders, and dangerous small forwards, Western Australia is shaping up as a formidable unit. The selectors have focused on both current form and players who embody the hard-edged, passionate style expected in State of Origin football.
All eyes now turn to the final team selection and the build-up to the late-May showdown, where state pride and a vital charitable cause will be on the line at one of the country's premier sporting venues.
