NSW has received a major boost ahead of the 2026 Women’s State of Origin opener, with superstar prop Millie Elliott set to make her long‑awaited return after missing last year’s series while pregnant. Elliott, who gave birth to daughter Gigi in September, is poised to play her first match since 2024 when she runs out in Origin I in Newcastle on April 30.
Her comeback isn’t the only change to the Blues lineup. The pregnancy of forward Emma Verran, announced in January, has opened the door for Teagan Berry to earn her maiden Origin call‑up from the bench. Berry, the electric Dragons fullback, is one of several fresh faces injected into the squad.
Rampaging Roosters prop Rima Butler has also been named on a six‑player bench and is in line for a potential debut, adding further firepower to the NSW pack.
NSW claimed the 2025 series 2-1, dropping only the dead rubber, and 14 players from that winning campaign have been retained for Game One. Fans will notice a couple of new surnames on jerseys, with hooker Keeley Nizza (née Davis) and back‑rower Yasmin Meakes (née Clydsdale) returning under their married names.
The Blues also welcome back star playmaker Corban Baxter, named in jersey 18, who missed last year’s series due to injury. Her inclusion adds valuable depth and experience to the extended squad.
Sharks captain Tiana Penitani‑Gray continues her remarkable Origin versatility, earning a starting spot in the back row her fourth different position for NSW after previously featuring at centre, wing and five‑eighth. Her shift pushes former captain Kezie Apps to the bench, giving the Blues a powerful rotation.
With returning stars, rising talents and a squad brimming with versatility, NSW enters the 2026 series with confidence and a lineup built to defend its crown.
+ There are no comments
Add yours