NRLW 2021: Parramatta goes all the way to the top with its five marquee signings

Parramatta clearly wants to make an impact in its inaugural NRLW campaign, signing on five NSW Blues weapons to start the ball rolling in a big way.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 25: Botille Vette-Welsh of the Roosters is tackled during the NRLW Grand Final match between the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters at ANZ Stadium on October 25, 2020 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Get excited, Eels fans.

Parramatta has announced five marquee players who will spearhead the club’s inaugural NRLW campaign — and they’re bound to shake up the elite competition.

The Eels revealed on Wednesday night that NSW Blues stars Simaima Taufa, Tiana Penitani, Botille Vette-Welsh, Filomina Hanisi, and Kennedy Cherrington have verbally agreed to don blue and gold in 2021.

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"We are delighted to announce experienced and representative players as our initial marquee signings and there will be more to follow in the coming weeks,” Eels CEO Jim Sarantinos said.

"They are the foundation upon which our women’s team will be built on, and a positive influence on both the squad and aspiring female players within the Parramatta region."

Taufa, Vette-Welsh, Hanisi and Cherrington played for the Roosters last year, while Penitani has been key for the Dragons since 2019.

Botille Vette-Welsh will be joining Parramatta in the club’s debut season.

Taufa’s leadership and experience will be key for Parramatta — the lock forward has represented Australia and NSW, captained the Roosters NRLW side and was awarded Dally M Female Player of the Year in 2017.

Centre Penitani and fullback Vette-Welsh have both excelled on the international stage, while Hanisi and Cherrington are two of the most exciting youngsters in the game. The Eels will finalise it’s 22-player squad over the coming weeks.

Simaima Taufa is another expected to don the gold and blue.

Tiana Penitani has joined the Eels for the maiden season.

It is understood that pre-season will begin on July 12 and the NRLW competition will kick off in August.

The Sydney Roosters, St George Illawarra and Newcastle are expected to announce their own marquee signings and squads over the next fortnight.

But there are whispers that Australian Jillaroos, NSW Blues and Dragons NRLW superstar Jessica Sergis could run out for the Chooks this year.

NRLW player Jessica Sergis could be playing for the tricolours in 2021. Picture: Justin Lloyd

Reigning NRLW premiers the Brisbane Broncos confirmed their marquee picks earlier this week, with Ali Brigginshaw, Millie Boyle, Tamika Upton, Tarryn Aiken and Amber Hall remaining at the club for the 2021 season.

The Gold Coast Titans also announced their top five in Tazmin Gray, Karina Brown, Georgia Hale, Brittany Breayley-Nati and Crystal Tamarua.

Both Queensland clubs will reveal remaining squad members over the coming weeks.

Originally published as NRLW 2021: Parramatta goes all the way to the top with its five marquee signings