Jillaroos name three debutantes in preparation for brutal Samoan pack, Broncos get sneak peak at star halves duo
Rima Butler is one of three fresh faces the Jillaroos will feature in their opening Pacific Championships clash against an explosive Samoan side.
Sydney Roosters enforcer Rima Butler is set to make her Jillaroos debut after being named to start at prop against Samoa in Sunday’s Pacific Championships clash at Suncorp Stadium.
The NRLW grand finalist is one of three brand new faces in the team with halfback Jesse Southwell and prop Ellie Johnston all named to make their debut for Australia.
Butler forms part of a new-look Jillaroos front row bracing for impact after studying Samoa’s epic first half demolition of New Zealand in the Pacific Championships opener.
Samoa has named an unchanged forward pack, with Butler, Jessika Elliston and Olivia Kernick to face Annetta-Claudia Nu’uausala, Eliza Lopamaua and Sienna Lofipo in a battle up front.
“It was such a physical game between (Samoa and New Zealand), and a battle of the middles as well, we’re definitely prepping for that and going up against a really tough team,” said coach Jess Skinner on Tuesday.
“It was exciting and entertaining and a great look for the women’s game.
“(Watching their game against New Zealand) does help with prep, we get to have a little look at some opportunities and some threats, it definitely helps with our preparation for sure. For us right now where we’re at in the week is we just have to get our combinations right in the week, tidy it up tomorrow and get ready for later in the week.”
The Jillaroos arrived in Camp on the Sunshine Coast on Monday ahead of Sunday’s clash.
It’s the first game of the series for Australia, who will be led by new coach Jess Skinner for the first time since thrashing England 90-4 in Las Vegas in March.
That result further cemented the Jillaroos as the benchmark for international rugby league, fair and away above the pack.
However, Samoa’s spirited performance in a 22-20 loss to New Zealand on Sunday showed the rest of the world is gaining ground.
“100 per cent and it’s all credit to the NRL for having the NRLW, the wonderful, amazing athletes that we have in our game that get to represent their countries as well,” said Jillaroos captain Kezie Apps.
“The game has gone from strength to strength every year and it’s so great to be a part of it and the growth of women’s rugby league.”
Southwell will also make her debut at halfback, replacing incumbent No.7 Tarryn Aiken who is sidelined with an ACL injury.
She’s been named alongside skipper Ali Brigginshaw, giving fans a first look at Brisbane’s halves partnership for next season.
The 20-year-old NSW Origin star and Dally M halfback of the year recently signed a two-year deal to join the NRLW premiership winners.
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