Kelleher debuts for Jillaroos as coach drops veteran Brigginshaw
Jocelyn Kelleher makes her Jillaroos debut against Samoa after coach Jess Skinner dropped veteran Ali Brigginshaw.
On Friday, Jocelyn Kelleher will play her first international match for Australia's women's rugby league team against Samoa in the World Cup opener. The 26-year-old has had a huge year, starring in Sydney Roosters' NRLW premiership push and making her first State of Origin start.
Jess Skinner made one of the hardest decisions of her coaching life. She left out mainstay five-eighth Ali Brigginshaw.
Sergis is confident Kelleher will shine alongside halfback Tarryn Aiken. The Jillaroos are favourites to win the tournament.
They beat world No.2 New Zealand and No.3 England last year. Nine players were named in the NRLW's team of the year.
- 26
- Kelleher's age
- No. 2
- World ranking of New Zealand
- No. 3
- World ranking of England
- 9 players
- Jillaroos in team of the year
Why it mattersSkinner's controversial call to drop Brigginshaw is unproven. Kelleher's World Cup debut performance will show if the coach's bold decision was justified.
AustraliaThe Jillaroos are Australia's women's rugby league team, and this World Cup could be the last one played on home soil, making it hugely significant for Australian fans.
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