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Victoria vs. WA: State of Origin Clash Looms

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 14:16 GMT by The West Australian
      Locales: Victoria, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

Perth, WA - February 12, 2026 - The countdown is on for the highly anticipated State of Origin clash between Victoria and Western Australia, set to ignite Optus Stadium on May 8th. The Victorian squad, dubbed the 'Big V', boasts a compelling mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, promising a fierce contest against their western rivals. This article delves deeper than just player profiles, examining the strategic implications of the squad selection and the key battles expected to unfold.

Victoria's team selection clearly prioritizes both defensive resilience and potent attacking firepower. The defensive line, anchored by the experience of Bachar Houli (281 games) at 35, provides a calming presence alongside the intercepting prowess of Jake Kelly and Callum Coleman-Jones. The inclusion of Jordan Dawson and Luke Murphy highlights a focus on rebounding from defense and initiating quick transitions. However, the reliance on Houli, while valuable for leadership, raises questions about the team's overall speed in the backline - something WA's dynamic forward line will undoubtedly exploit. The somewhat surprising inclusion of Tom Barrass, a West Coast Eagle, as an interchange defender suggests the Victorian selectors are prioritizing experience and a deep understanding of the Optus Stadium conditions, despite the potential for a divided dressing room.

The midfield is arguably the strongest area for the Big V. Patrick Cripps, a known ball-winning machine, will be pivotal in controlling the contested possession. He'll be supported by the hard-running Joel Garner and the tackling intensity of Andrew Brayshaw. Christian Petracca's versatility - capable of playing both inside and outside the contest - makes him a particularly dangerous proposition for WA. The presence of Toby McLean and George Horlin-Smith adds further depth and a gritty edge to the midfield rotation. A key strategy for Victoria will be to deny WA's star midfielders clean possession, potentially employing a tagger on their most influential player. The midfield battle will be crucial in dictating the flow of the game.

Up forward, the Victorian attack is spearheaded by the experienced Taylor Walker and the dynamic Charlie Curnow. Walker's aerial dominance and proven goal-kicking ability provide a reliable target, while Curnow's marking and finishing have been in stellar form. Josh Bruce provides a strong physical presence and another contested marking option. However, the forward line lacks a truly explosive, breakaway speedster. Blake Coleman's inclusion attempts to address this, but he'll need to be closely monitored by WA's quick defenders. Dan McInerny's forward pressure is a valuable asset, but his primary role will likely be to create opportunities for the key forwards. The interchange bench offers further flexibility, with Jack Reid capable of filling multiple roles.

Beyond the Profiles: Key Strategic Considerations

This Victorian squad presents a fascinating blend of experience and youth. The challenge for coach will be to effectively integrate these players and create a cohesive team dynamic. A significant concern is the potential for fatigue in the Western Australian heat. The interchange bench, while solid, appears somewhat defensively-minded, suggesting a conservative game plan focused on controlling possession and limiting mistakes.

Furthermore, the selection of players from multiple AFL clubs introduces the complexity of forging strong on-field combinations in a limited timeframe. Building rapport and understanding between teammates who typically compete against each other will be paramount.

The Optus Stadium surface is known for its quick pace and expansive playing style. Victoria will need to utilize their kicking skills to exploit the width of the ground and avoid getting bogged down in congested contests. The ability to transition quickly from defense to attack will be crucial. Expect to see a strong emphasis on handball and precise passing.

Ultimately, the State of Origin clash is more than just a football game; it's a battle for pride and bragging rights. The Victorian squad has the talent to challenge WA, but success will hinge on their ability to execute their game plan, adapt to the conditions, and overcome the challenges posed by a formidable opponent.