Not only because it is a fierce competition of strength and skills to find the better state between NSW and Queensland, but the Central Western Daily sports journalist’s partner Jessica Hughes gave birth to their son, Harry, on the night of game two, June 18, last year.

While he was too busy caught up in the joys of new-found fatherhood to watch the match, Mr McGrath said it was a night he will never forget.

“Harry was born on the night NSW won the series, on the night of game two,” Mr McGrath said.

“We hadn’t won in the last eight years, but then we managed to pull through. It was great to see.”

The rugby league tragic is hoping his son will act as a good luck charm again when the NSW Blues and Queensland Maroons go head-to-head for the first game of the 2015 series at ANZ Stadium in Sydney at 8pm tonight. 

Mr McGrath said he hoped the Blues would retain the shield for another year, and gave his prediction for the first match.

“NSW will win by four. [NSW Blues prop] Aaron Woods will be man of the match,” he said.

Mr McGrath said he would watch the game at a friend’s house tonight to let Harry get a good night’s sleep and leave Ms Hughes in peace.

“There will be a few Queensland people and a few NSW people there, it should be good fun with friendly rivalry,” he said.

alexandra.king@fairfaxmedia.com.au