Graham Lowe: How a NZ version of Origin would work

New South Wales and Queensland meet in State of Origin I on Wednesday. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand has the chance to deliver a series that could equal State of Origin.

And I'm sure if the founding father of Origin footy, the late Senator Ron McAullife was still alive, he'd agree with me, in fact I know he would.

But we wouldn't call it Origin; we'd call it Kiwi Roots, which means which the heritage you value most. Wouldn't that put a sting in the tail?

Once again, here, in a rugby union country we are about to be enthralled by a game that has never been played in New Zealand. There are hundreds of thousands of closet NRL fans around the country but the magic that is called State of Origin brings them all out.

Words escape me when I try and explain exactly what this Phenomenon 'State of Origin' means, it's certainly more than the often quoted "State against State, mate against mate".

Maybe a team full of Richie McCaws, desperately willing to cross any line to win the Rugby World Cup, would provide an idea of the commitment, desperation and ownership of the prize, and what each player is prepared to sacrifice in order to win it.

Whatever it is, it's still magic. And I think the ingredients of that magic are here in New Zealand waiting for a visionary to set them alight. (Can you hear me Dean Lonergan?)
Kiwi Roots is a formula I have always believed could provide the white hot atmosphere this type of contest generates.

Played during the State of Origin window I can see two teams playing a game at Mt Smart Stadium that would be every bit the contest Origin footy is.

The players can decide where there their roots are from, whether they be the Pacific Islands or New Zealand.

I think it is mouth-watering when you consider the two teams and how competitive it could be.

Let's throw out for a start; those of New Zealand heritage are better players that those of Pacific heritage or vis a versa. Wouldn't that cause some debate.

It could be billed around the question of which heritage is the best, the strongest and importantly, who is good enough to represent New Zealand.

A big percentage of the players would find themselves eligible for either team and so what. It doesn't matter, it's their choice.

But one thing is for certain, it's a formula that could last the test of time and it is uniquely Kiwi.

State of Origin in Australia was born due to the unfair advantage NSW use to enjoy over Queensland during the inter-state series.

In 1980, I witnessed that birth at Lang Park and it's something I'll never forget.

And Roots could be founded on the massive Polynesian influence we have all witnessed in rugby league over the last twenty or so years or so.

In my opinion it's been a very positive influence that has reshaped how the game is played.

But it does open the door to an opportunity we shouldn't miss.

I'm talking about players who are the very best of mates, being provided the chance to play against one another for their place of heritage.

We could re-invent Origin football Kiwi style.

The momentum the Kiwis have started needs to be backed up in every way possible. I'm suggesting, here is one way, Kiwi Roots!

And I'd involve the public by offering a couple of positions in each team voted on or even inviting a couple of players for each side from the domestic competitions here in New Zealand.

On Saturday I went to Walker Park in the suburbs of Auckland and watched Pt Chevalier playing against Otahuhu.

There is certainly talent running around in that particular premier grade competition good enough for any NRL club.

In fact I've watched a number of games this year in the Auckland competitions and the depth of talent, given the right opportunities, is unbelievable.

And it is opportunities that unearth the bolters. Roots would deliver a pathway for all Kiwi players where ever they may be playing.