Players boycott the Australian National Anthem during State of Origin clash

Video / SKY Sport

Players across the ditch have boycotted the Australian national anthem by not singing it during the State of Origin clash last night at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. 

Players from both Queensland and New South Wales participated in the boycott. Players including Cody Walker and Will Chambers had spoken about boycotting it in the build-up to the match. 

According to reports, of the 34 players, 11 of those did not sing during the anthem. 

Many players said that the anthem represented them or their families. Former rugby league great Johnathan Thurston said that it was time for Australians to have their say on the issue. 

"Australia needs to be educated about its history, we have come a long way from where we were but we have a long way to go." Thurston said ahead of the anthem. 

Players who took part in the boycott include some with Māori and Pacific Island heritage. 

Players including Kalyn Ponga, David Fifita, Joe Ofahengaue and Josh Paplii appeared to be among those not singing 'Advance Australia Fair'.

Online, people have voiced their opinions with some pointing out differences between the anthems of Australia and other international countries.