Ethan Strange has inspired the biggest comeback in State of Origin history, starring on his debut to give the Blues a 22-20 series-opening win over a 12-man Queensland.
Maroons fullback Kalyn Ponga was sent off for a 58th-minute shoulder charge and Strange came to life to carry the Blues to victory at a rain-soaked Accor Stadium in Sydney on Wednesday.
Ponga was dismissed for a high shot on Blues winger Tolu Koula and at the time Billy Slater's men led 20-6 after a magnificent first-half display from rookie Maroons No.7 Sam Walker.
But Queensland could not hold on with Strange, halfback Nathan Cleary and fullback James Tedesco - the scorer of the match-winning try - on his Origin return, helping NSW home.
