Queensland Maroons announce team for Women's State of Origin Game II
Queensland coach Tahnee Norris has resisted making sweeping changes despite needing to win Game II to save the women's Origin series, with only one new face on the bench.
Brisbane Broncos forward Chelsea Lenarduzzi replaces Destiny Brill, who will move to the extended reserves as Queensland attempts to keep their dreams of retaining the shield alive.
Lenarduzzi has played for Queensland six times since 2017 and gives some added size to the Maroons, who lost the opener 32-12 at Lang Park on May 1.
"I wanted to bolster the size in our middle, and Chelsea gives us that," Norris 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.
Photo shows
Composite image of Jesse Southwell, Ali Brigginshaw and Ellie Johnston in Women's State of Origin I.
Eye gouges, hair pulls, a classic duel and a glorious night for the new kids on the block. Here are five quick hits from the Women's State of Origin series opener.
"I am disappointed for Destiny after she missed out, but I am eager to see what game two will look like."
NSW go into game two at Allianz Stadium on May 15 with an unchanged starting 17, although there is one change on the extended bench.
North Queensland playmaker Kirra Dibb drops out of the squad to be replaced by Sydney Roosters winger Brydie Parker.
The Sky Blues can wrap up the series with a victory, while Queensland will be hoping for a repeat of last year, after winning 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
AAP
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