NSW have named an unchanged squad for the Women’s State of Origin decider, with coach Kylie Hilder confident her side can overcome the devastating game two loss.
After a dominant performance in the series opener, the Sky Blues fell agonisingly short in rainy conditions against the Maroons in Newcastle, forcing the first decider in women’s Origin history.
The only minor adjustment to the line-up will see Olivia Kernick start in the No.13 jumper and Roosters teammate Keeley Davis dropping to the bench, as they had done in the previous two matches before kick-off.
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“Olivia started for us in games one and two in the lock position, coming off the bench, so I’ve just formalised that now,” Hilder said.
“We came very close to wrapping up the series in game two, and the girls are very focused that we get another chance to do that in Townsville.”
Rachael Pearson has retained her spot at halfback despite a disappointing performance in game two in a surprising call from Hilder and the selectors, with premiership-winning Knights playmaker Jesse Southwell again overlooked for NSW duties.
Watch the 2024 Women’s State of Origin series on Nine and 9Now.
Jessica Sergis has been named despite being hampered by injury at McDonald Jones Stadium, while back-rower Kezie Apps will again co-captain the side with Isabelle Kelly.
Kirra Dibb, Jakiya Whitfield and Ellie Johnston have been named as the reserves for the clash in Townsville on June 27.
NSW Sky Blues Game 3 squad
1. Emma Tonegato 2. Jaime Chapman 3. Jess Sergis 4. Isabelle Kelly (c) 5. Tiana Penitani 6. Corban Baxter 7. Rachael Pearson 8. Millie Elliott 9. Olivia Higgins 10. Caitlan Johnston-Green 11. Kezie Apps (c) 12. Yasmin Clydsdale 13. Olivia Kernick 14. Taliah Fuimaono 15. Keeley Davis 16. Grace Kemp 17. Sarah Togatuki 18. Jakiya Whitfeld 19. Kirra Dibb 20. Ellie Johnston