Knights star Jesse Southwell dropped from NSW team ahead of Origin I

NSW are desperate to reverse a run of Origin losses and have turned to a brand new halves combination ahead of Game 1, forcing out Newcastle’s two-time premiership-winning halfback.

Newcastle’s two-time premiership-winning halfback Jesse Southwell has been dropped from the NSW women’s State of Origin team ahead of the series opener at Suncorp Stadium on May 16.

The 19-year-old star made her Sky Blues debut in game one last year, playing both games in an overall Queensland series win.

She then led the Knights to a second-straight NRLW premiership in October, but coach Kylie Hilder has opted for Origin experience over youth.

The Sky Blues have won just one series (2022) of the past four and are desperate to turn it around in a newly expanded three-game series.

Southwell’s axing is part of a change up of the halves with new duo Rachael Pearson (Parramatta) and Roosters champion Corban Baxter named at halfback and five-eighth to face the Maroons on Thursday week.

Pearson’s recall to the side comes after she was dropped for game two last year, while this is Baxter’s return to the Origin arena after the birth of her son in early 2023.

Although she predominantly plays as a fullback in the NRLW, she’s played two games at five-eighth for the Sky Blues in 2020 and 2021.

Pearson is dealing with a minor calf injury and is expected to be fit to play, but Cowboys star Kirra Dibb has been brought into the squad as cover.

Jesse Southwell won’t be picked for Origin I. Picture: Matt King/Getty Images

Cross-code convert and former Wallaroos forward Grace Kemp has been named to make her debut for NSW from the bench after a breakthrough first season with Canberra last year.

Aside from changes in the halves, the backline remains the same with Jillaroos stars Emma Tonegato, Jaime Chapman, Jess Sergis, Isabelle Kelly and Tiana Penitani all retaining their spots despite hot competition from Jakiya Whitfeld (Cowboys) and Teagan Berry (Dragons).

Changes are expected upfront too with Kennedy Cherrington expected to be overlooked and Canberra lock Simaima Taufa missing due to injury.

The team for game one will go into camp on Thursday.