State of Origin will return to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground for Game I of the 2021 series.

The NRL announced on Monday that Game II would head to Brisbane while a possible deciding Game III would be held at Stadium Australia in Syndney.

“We’re excited to be taking Australia’s biggest sporting brand to Melbourne for the 10th time,’’ NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.

“The last year has been incredibly challenging for Victorians with the extended lockdowns and challenges. We’re delighted to be bringing Ampol State of Origin back to the city.

“It will give fans an exceptional live sports experience, and bring interstate visitors back to the hotels and restaurants.”

New South Wales has a good record at the MCG and last played there in 2018 – beating the Maroons 22-12 in front of almost 90,000 fans.