Kelleher to make Australia debut in World Cup opener against Samoa
The 26-year-old will join Roosters teammate Tarryn Aiken in the halves after coach Jess Skinner left Ali Brigginshaw out of the squad.
Australia have selected Jocelyn Kelleher for her first international appearance in their Women’s Rugby League World Cup opening match against Samoa at CommBank Stadium.
The Jillaroos opportunity follows the 26-year-old’s role in the Sydney Roosters’ NRLW premiership push and her first NSW start in the halves during Women’s State of Origin earlier in the year.
Coach Jess Skinner omitted experienced five-eighth Ali Brigginshaw from the tournament squad, describing the phone call informing her of the decision as among the hardest of her life. Kelleher will play alongside her Roosters halves partner Tarryn Aiken.
Centre Jess Sergis said Kelleher had become more confident and vocal, with a stronger grasp of her role. She said Kelleher had been in Australia’s squad last year without getting a game.
Nine Jillaroos were named in the NRLW’s Dally M team of the year. Sergis said the players did not feel under pressure from expectations surrounding the squad, but acknowledged Samoa’s size would present a physical challenge.
Sergis is also preparing for her 15th Australian appearance. A knee injury denied her the chance to make her debut when Australia last hosted the World Cup in 2017, she said.
