Nathan Cleary delivered a masterclass as New South Wales stunned Queensland 30-12 in Brisbane to clinch the State of Origin series 2-1. The Kangaroos half-back scored two tries and kicked five goals for a 14-point haul, his calmness under pressure contrasting with Queensland's miserable night off the tee — the Maroons missed all three attempts at goal. Cleary's first try came after sustained Blues pressure, the second off a brilliant one-handed offload from Mark Nawaqanitawase, and his late penalty effectively iced the contest.

Two pivotal video-review decisions shaped the second half. Bradman Best's sensational length-of-the-field try stood despite replays suggesting Jack Bostock knocked on, while a Robert Toia score was chalked off for Max Plath's offside. Queensland fought back through Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow — his 14th try in 13 Origin appearances — and Selwyn Cobbo, but never recovered from an 18-0 halftime deficit.

The victory vindicates Laurie Daley, whose contract expires now the series is over. He overhauled his side after a 44-24 Game Two thrashing in Melbourne, recalling Liam Martin and debuting Bostock. James Tedesco's first-half head injury forced Reece Walsh into action for Queensland, but the Maroons' season ends in frustration. Daley's future remains uncertain, but his bold selections delivered when it mattered most.