Queensland coach Tahnee Norris has opted against making major changes to her squad despite the need to win Game II to keep their hopes of retaining the women’s Origin series alive. The only alteration is the addition of one new player on the bench.
Brisbane Broncos forward Chelsea Lenarduzzi comes in to replace Destiny Brill, who will move to the extended reserves. This change is part of Queensland’s strategy to keep their series dreams alive after their 32-12 loss in the series opener on May 1 at Lang Park.
Lenarduzzi, who has represented Queensland six times since 2017, adds more physical presence to the Maroons. Norris expressed confidence in the change: “I wanted to bolster the size in our middle, and Chelsea gives us that,” she said. “I’m excited to see what Duzzi (Lenarduzzi) can bring to the team. She’s got a big frame and work rate, so it’ll be good for us.”
Although Norris was disappointed for Destiny Brill, she remained optimistic about the upcoming match, adding, “I am eager to see what Game Two will look like.”
On the other side, NSW will head into Game II at Allianz Stadium on May 15 with an unchanged starting 17. However, there is one adjustment on the extended bench, with North Queensland playmaker Kirra Dibb dropping out and Sydney Roosters winger Brydie Parker taking her place.
NSW has the opportunity to seal the series with a win, while Queensland will be hoping for a repeat of last year, when they won the series despite losing the first game.
NSW Women’s State of Origin Game II squad:
- Abbi Church
- Jaime Chapman
- Jessica Sergis
- Isabelle Kelly
- Jayme Fressard
- Tiana Penitani Gray
- Jesse Southwell
- Simaima Taufa
- Keeley Davis
- Ellie Johnston
- Kezie Apps
- Yasmin Clydsdale
- Olivia Kernick
- Jocelyn Kelleher
- Kennedy Cherrington
- Sarah Togatuki
- Emma Verran
- Shaylee Bent
- Olivia Higgins
- Brydie Parker
Queensland Women’s State of Origin Game II squad:
- Tamika Upton
- Julia Robinson
- Shenae Ciesiolka
- Rory Owen
- Jasmine Peters
- Tarryn Aiken
- Ali Brigginshaw
- Makenzie Weale
- Lauren Brown
- Jessika Elliston
- Sienna Lofipo
- Romy Teitzel
- Keilee Joseph
- Jada Ferguson
- Sophie Holyman
- Chelsea Lenarduzzi
- Tavarna Papalii
- Georgia Hannaway
- Destiny Brill
- Hayley Maddick
