In a sensational change before Women’s State of Origin Game III, the Queensland team has gone in a new and surprising direction. On the field, they are moving Ali Brigginshaw from her normal halfback position to the lock spot. Brigginshaw received much criticism after the opening two games of the series. Her performance has not lived up to that promise, which brings us to this decision. The move refreshes the Maroons’ game plan. They are hell-bent on not letting New South Wales make it a series whitewash.
Brigginshaw has proven a linchpin for Queensland throughout previous series. That hasn’t always been the case, as she looked out of sorts in the earlier games finding a flow. Her move into lock, taking over from Keilee Joseph, was one of several changes made with the intent of surprising the opposition that head coach Tahnee Norris has employed. The changes speak to the team’s desire for a new direction having had lackluster results in the three previous meetings.
Ali Brigginshaw’s Role Change
Brigginshaw’s move from the halves to lock is perhaps the biggest change in her role. They reached that conclusion after watching her fail in the first two games. She felt tired and irritable and was unable to fully inspire, motivate, and energize the team. Images taken in the course of that practice reveal Brigginshaw with arms crossed and hands on hips — irate with both the circumstance at hand.
Her transition to lock opens up a new element to the team. That means 18-year-old rookie Georgia Hannaway will make her debut off the bench, taking over Brigginshaw’s old role in the halves alongside Lauren Brown. This new pairing should introduce a much more unpredictable dynamic to Queensland’s offensive approach. Brown will take Brigginshaw’s place and will join forces with Tarryn Aiken in the halves.
Changes Across the Board
Destiny Brill is back in the starting lineup, after missing the last match. She will replace Lauren Brown in the hooker position. These alterations represent a bigger replacement of the deck chairs on the Titanic of the Queensland squad, as most other players are undergoing changes, too. The coaching staff hopes that these strategic moves will enhance team performance as they prepare for a crucial game.
Fortunately, the new leadership of Queensland understands that things need to be done better. They’re committed to getting after the problems that caused those past defeats. By reshuffling their lineup, New Zealand seeks to shore up their backline and bolster their offense in preparation for New South Wales.
Looking Ahead to Game III
As Game III approaches, Brigginshaw’s new role as a lock could be pivotal for Queensland’s chances of success. She’s hell-bent on making a positive impact, even if she wasn’t included in the original halves lineup. Thus, pressure is growing to prevent a 2023 whitewash. Whether she plays defense or mid, her experience over the years will be irreplaceable.
As the Maroons have made several changes to get to this decisive showdown, their resolve to shift and regroup is on full display. Brigginshaw and her Jillaroos teammates are bracing for a fierce battle. Particularly all the other CFL teams’ eyes will be on them as they look to flip the script and do what’s best for Queensland.
