South Australia will play its first AFL Origin match in 28 years when it takes on Western Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth on Saturday 27 February 2027.
The AFL has locked in a 4.40pm local start for the clash (7.10pm ACDT, 7.40pm AEDT), AFL.com.au reported, with the ABC also confirming the date and time.
It will be South Australia’s first Origin appearance since 1999, while Western Australia and South Australia have not met under Origin rules since 1998. South Australia missed out when WA and Victoria played in Origin’s return after a 27-year absence.
“We are thrilled to officially confirm a date for AAMI AFL Origin in 2027, with Western Australia and South Australia set to reignite one of football’s greatest rivalries next February,” AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said.
Why late February
The date fits the later start to the 2027 premiership season, which will begin on either March 17 or 18. The AFL confirmed last month that the season would start later than usual because of the 150th anniversary cricket Test between Australia and England on March 11-15, with the Grand Final set for October 2.
Read more: AFL Deadline Day Wrap: Coleman, Viney Move as Nick Murray Stays
“Optus Stadium provided an incredible stage for AFL Origin’s return earlier this year and we look forward to continuing to build on that momentum as we prepare for a meeting of two proud football states in Perth,” Dillon said.
Who could play for South Australia
AFL.com.au named Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Lachie Neale, Jordan Dawson, Jason Horne-Francis and Brodie Grundy among the stars who could pull on the famous red jumper. The coaches and players for both sides will be confirmed over the coming months.
Read more: AFL: Lachie Neale Bids Lions Farewell as Collingwood Move Looms
The match will mark 50 years since the first Origin match in 1977 and coincide with the SANFL’s 150th anniversary.
AFL Origin fixtures to 2029
The next three Origin fixtures were confirmed in July. After the 2027 match in Perth, South Australia will host Victoria at Adelaide Oval in 2028, before Western Australia meets Victoria again at Optus Stadium in 2029.
Tickets go on sale through Ticketmaster on December 2 for club members and December 3 for the general public.
More News
