New Era Dawns for Maroons as Squad Named for Women's Origin I

The Queensland Maroons are set to embark on a new chapter in the Women's State of Origin series, unveiling a fresh-faced squad for Game I in Newcastle. With the formidable halves pairing of Ali Brigginshaw and Tarryn Aiken sidelined due to unavailability, the team management has opted for a dynamic blend of established talent and exciting debutants.

This selection signals a significant shift for the Maroons, presenting an opportunity for emerging stars to shine on the Origin stage. The inclusion of Sharks playmaker Chantay Kiria-Ratu at five-eighth, partnering the experienced Lauren Brown at halfback, promises an intriguing halves combination. Furthermore, the Maroons will debut several players, including Titans teammate Phoenix-Raine Hippi on the wing, and bench players Otesa Pule and Ivana Lolesio, alongside uncapped Destiny Mino-Sinapati. This injection of new talent underscores the depth of women's rugby league in Queensland.

The series opener on April 30 at Hunter Stadium marks the beginning of a crucial campaign for the Maroons. The subsequent games in Brisbane and the Gold Coast will test the mettle of this revamped squad. As the New South Wales team's lineup is also anticipated, the stage is set for a fiercely contested series, showcasing the growing talent and intensity of women's rugby league.