League: NSW, Queensland prepare for Origin battle

Blues loudmouth Willie Mason has been surprisingly quiet during the build-up to the State of Origin opener in Brisbane. Photo / Getty Images

Rugby League's showpiece event kicks-off on Wednesday with the opening game of the State of Origin series in Brisbane.

In what is a rare occasion, Queensland head into the game as favourites against a New South Wales side still smarting from last year's series loss.

Click on the link below the image to view photos of the teams' build-up to the match.