The National Rugby League (NRL) has admitted to a critical error in the bunker's review process during the deciding State of Origin match, a mistake that occurred in the lead-up to a try awarded to the New South Wales Blues. This admission has fueled debate and prompted criticism from Queensland Maroons figures regarding the technology's role in the game.
The Blues secured the series 2-1 with a 30-12 victory at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday night. However, concerns were raised about the validity of Bradman Best's breakaway try in the 57th minute.
During a passage of play where Queensland attempted to gather a kick, Maroons winger Jojo Fifita challenged Blues winger Jack Bostock. While replays suggested both players may have touched the ball before it went forward and was subsequently gathered by Best for a try, the bunker initially cleared Bostock of a knock-on. The decision was based on a corner post camera angle, which the NRL stated indicated Bostock had not touched the ball.
However, following the match, the NRL released a statement confirming that upon a more detailed review, it appeared the ball was indeed touched by Bostock. "After reviewing all available angles, the bunker did not believe there was sufficient evidence to overturn the on-field decision," the statement read. "Upon detailed review after the match, the NRL believes that while it was an extremely tight decision, the ball appeared to be touched." The NRL also confirmed that the corner post angle, which was purportedly used to clear Bostock, did not definitively clarify the incident.
This admission led to strong reactions from Queensland representatives. Maroons legend Shane Webcke described the Blues' victory as "hollow" due to the disputed call, calling the decision "disgraceful."
Fellow Maroons great Cameron Smith also voiced his disappointment, questioning the future of the bunker system if it cannot make correct decisions in crucial moments. "If that's touched his hand and it's proved to have touched it, we need a serious review of the bunker," Smith stated. "We spent a lot of money on it. We put trust in people to sit in there and make the right decision. If we're not going to make the right decision in the big games, in the big moments, flick it."
Andrew Johns, a commentator and former player, also expressed doubts about the decision, suggesting that crucial calls should be made based on real-time viewing rather than slow-motion replays. "Show it in real time, and if it looks like a try, get on with it," Johns commented.
Despite the controversy, coach Billy Slater stated that the match reflected a night where "things didn't go our way." Queensland captain Cameron Munster also indicated he had spoken with referee Ashley Klein at halftime regarding various officiating decisions.
Fans and media personalities have debated the incident, with some criticizing Webcke's reaction and pointing to other factors such as missed tackles and completion rates in Queensland's loss.
