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Two members of the Royal Family participated in Queensland’s exuberant State of Origin celebrations after Billy Slater’s team reclaimed bragging rights over New South Wales on Wednesday night.
It was a determined, underdog triumph for the Maroons, who bounced back after losing the first Test to secure a 24-12 win at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, clinching the series 2-1.
Heartfelt scenes emerged at full time as Tom Dearden shone alongside the grief-stricken Queensland captain Cameron Munster, who valiantly led his team after the sudden passing of his father, Steven, over the weekend.
Meanwhile, in the stands former England rugby star Mike Tindall and his wife Zara watched on as Queensland sealed the epic victory.
The pair are understood to be good friends with Maroons boss, Slater, after they crossed paths at a polo event in Queensland back in January 2024.
Can you spot the famous Royal couple in this picture during Queensland’s State of Origin celebrations?
Mike Tindall and his wife Zara were in attendance at Accor Stadium on Wednesday night to watch Queensland seal victory against New South Wales
Slater had teamed up with Tindall and Aussie polo star Ruki Ballieau for the celebrity polo match at the Magic Millions Showjumping and Polo Day last year.
Tindall had scored the opening point in the match that day, while Slater said: ‘My competitive edge definitely came out’ after his side drew 4-4 on the day.
‘I had so much adrenaline pumping that riding around afterwards was like the end of an origin game,’ Slater added.
Emotions were certainly high on Wednesday night too, and the Tindalls got to see that first-hand, as Slater welcomed them into the changing rooms after the match to celebrate with the side.
The former England and Gloucester star donned a Queensland baseball cap, while Zara was also seen wearing a Maroons beany and scarf.
Slater’s team belted out songs in the changing room after being crowned Origin victors as friends, family and past Queensland Origin legends watched on from the sidelines, alongside the Tindalls.
In what will go down as one of the most heartwarming moments to have ever taken place in a State of Origin series, the players halted their celebrations momentarily as they sat in a circle.
Pictured: Zara and Mike Tindall taking in the action with Billy Slater’s wife Nicole (pictured between the couple) during the Maroons’ emotional victory on Wednesday night
Tindall is understood to be a good friend of Queensland coach Billy Slater, with the pair crossing paths last year at a polo event
The former England and Gloucester star donned a Queensland baseball cap, while Zara was also seen wearing a Maroons beany and scarf (pictured at Ascott in June)
They then raised their beers as they paid tribute to Munster’s father Steven.
Munster covered his face, overwhelmed with emotion.
The 29-year-old wiped away tears as he embraced his coach Billy Slater post-match. The bravery and strength of character shown by Munster to play was an inspiration to his coach and also to his teammates who all lifted to a man.
Munster was interviewed by his childhood hero Darren Lockyer on Channel Nine and all the feelings of his turbulent week spilled out.
‘Look, it’s a tough one, like a high of emotions. When someone loses someone, you forget about it sometimes, but then it brings back memories,’ Munster said.
‘I just want to say thank you to all of the rugby league community, they’ve been outstanding.
‘I’ve had so much support and text messages from not only rugby league (people). Family is more important than anything, and a lot of people showed that the last couple of days and really got behind me.’
Munster has grieved with his family this week and singled them out for being rocks of support.
Billy Slater (pictured) led his Maroons team as they paid tribute by raising their post-game beers to Cameron Munster’s dad, Steven, who passed away last week
In a touching moment, the Maroons raised their beers for Munster’s father in the changing room
After the match, Munster (left) thanked all those who had supported him over the past week
‘Thank you to my Mum, my sister, my partner Bianca and the kids for getting behind me this weekend,’ Munster said.
‘I know it’s been a tough time, but that’s life.
‘I just want to appreciate everyone that’s been around me and made this week so special. We’ll enjoy tonight and I can’t wait to obviously go next year and hopefully see what we can do.’
Munster has received great support from his Maroons teammates but also from his Blues opponents, which clearly moved him.
‘I’d just like to thank the NSW Blues, Isaah (Yeo), Nathan (Cleary), Laurie Daley and all the coaching staff and all the players,’ Munster said at the official presentation.
‘I really appreciate some of you reaching out to me during the week. It just shows how good rugby league is.
‘Family’s bigger than the sport. Thank you for rallying behind me. It doesn’t go unnoticed. I’m in awe of all you guys and you’ll be back bigger and better next year.’
Munster’s two performances as captain of the Maroons don’t get any better.
He was man of the match in the 26-24 win in game two in Perth to keep the series alive and then played a controlled, disciplined and also dangerous role in the decider.
His kicking display was as good as any in his 21-game Origin career.
