OPINION: State of Origin. State against state. Mate against mate. The spin merchants label it as "sport's greatest rivalry", but I'd argue that it's simply rugby league's greatest rivalry.
Still, there is one thing you can't argue about: it is great theatre, and one of those rare sporting occasions you can't miss, even if you don't care who wins.
And that's the way I see it. Despite being born in the true-blue rugby league town of Queanbeyan in New South Wales, I grew up across the border in Canberra, where the Green Machine rules.
As a result - like many people from the capital - I support the team who has the most Raiders players.
Canberra is something of a Switzerland in the annual state wars, flipping between the Allies and Axis powers depending on our mood.
With 29 Raiders being picked for NSW and Queensland down the years, it's been a tough decision.
Using our one-eyed green eyes, in recent years, we've cheered for Queensland, with David Shillington and Josh Papalii wearing maroon.
Earlier this decade, when the likes of Joel Monaghan and Terry Campese lined up for NSW, we wanted the boys in blue to win.
The 1980s and 90s were a toss of the coin for Raiders fans, with big names Mal Meninga, Gary Belcher, Steve Walters and Peter Jackson playing for Queensland, at the same time as New South Wales legends Bradley Clyde, Laurie Daley, Ricky Stuart and Glenn Lazarus.
At the time, we just enjoyed the spectacle and prayed no-one got injured.
When Raiders players weren't picked in either team, we'd decide our allegiances on who was coaching the Origin teams.
Again, it was a tough choice, with Stuart and Daley having stints looking after the Blues, while Meninga oversaw a golden period for the Maroons.
There is, however, one rule all Raiders fans stick to.
If a player leaves the Raiders for another team under controversial circumstances, and are picked for Origin, we'll support the other team. Josh Dugan and Blake Ferguson have made me cheer for Queensland recently, while Anthony Milford's inclusion is making me sway towards the Blues on Wednesday night.
Actually, Papalii is such a great fella, and in great form for Canberra. I've changed my mind: go the Maroons!
Craig Norenbergs is a Newshub sport contributor.
Join us at 10pm Wednesday for live updates of NSW vs Queensland State of Origin I from Melbourne.
