Ali Brigginshaw Retires From State of Origin, Focuses on Final NRLW Season
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A legendary career has come to a close as Ali Brigginshaw, captain of the Queensland Maroons, announced her immediate retirement from State of Origin football. The decorated player, the moast-capped Maroon of the NRLW era, will shift her full attention to a final season with the Brisbane Broncos before concluding her rugby league journey.
Brigginshaw’s decision follows a challenging 2025 Origin campaign where, despite her consistently high standards, she was benched during the third game of the series after a 2-1 series loss. While initially open to continuing in the representative arena, she ultimately persistent a renewed focus was necessary.
“After many restless nights over the off-season, I have decided to end my time in the Origin arena and focus all my energy on the Broncos for the upcoming season, which will be my last in rugby league,” Brigginshaw stated.”I can’t put into words what playing for Queensland meant to me. Pulling on the maroon jersey made me feel bulletproof. Historic moments, amazing teams and great mates.”
Unwavering Commitment to the Maroons
Brigginshaw’s dedication to Queensland rugby league is unparalleled. Since the inception of the NRLW era in 2018, she has been a constant presence in the Maroons lineup, participating in all 13 matches and captaining the side for 12 of them. Prior to the NRLW, she represented Queensland in seven interstate matches, making her debut as a 19-year-old in 2009.
Throughout her Origin career, Brigginshaw showcased her versatility, playing at halfback, lock, and five-eighth. She led the Maroons to a historic victory in the inaugural three-match Origin series in 2024, cementing her legacy as a pivotal figure in the growth of women’s rugby league.
Looking Ahead: Broncos and Future Halves Partnership
the 36-year-old veteran previously announced her intention to retire following the Broncos’ 2026 campaign, citing ongoing speculation about her future as a contributing factor to her decision. Now, she will concentrate on helping Brisbane achieve back-to-back premierships in the NRLW.
The Maroons will now look to the future, with Lauren Brown, who filled Brigginshaw’s role at halfback in Origin III last year, emerging as a potential partner for Tarryn Aiken in the halves for the 2026 series.
The women’s State of Origin series is scheduled to begin in Newcastle on April 30, with the NRLW season commencing in July. Brigginshaw’s departure marks the end of an era,but her impact on the game will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
Why did Ali Brigginshaw retire? After a challenging 2025 Origin series and ongoing speculation about her future, Brigginshaw decided to focus her energy on her final season with the Brisbane Broncos before retiring from rugby league altogether.
Who is Ali Brigginshaw? She is the most-capped Queensland Maroon of the NRLW era, a decorated player, and captain of the Maroons. She has been a pivotal figure in the growth of women’s rugby league.
What was Brigginshaw’s impact? brigginshaw led the Maroons to victory in the inaugural three-match Origin series in 2024 and consistently demonstrated versatility, playing multiple positions throughout her career. Her dedication and leadership have left a lasting legacy on the game.
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