LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The NZ Warriors women's team will debut 16 players, led by Captain Apii Nicholls, in their upcoming NRLW match against the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, Sydney.
Kick-off is scheduled for 11:50 AM local time (1:50 PM NZT).
Nicholls, the only player with prior experience at the Warriors, was part of the squad in the league's inaugural season in 2018, playing in all six games in the first two years.
Following her stints with the Gold Coast Titans and Canberra Raiders, she has amassed 28 NRLW games and 16 Tests for the Kiwi Ferns, making her the most experienced player in a team comprised of a diverse mix of NRLW talents and former rugby union players.
In addition to Nicholls, the round one side includes several players with NRLW experience: ex-Knights centre-winger Emmanita Paki, halfback Emily Curtain (Eels and Tigers), prop Harata Butler (Sharks and Cowboys), hooker Capri Paekau (Eels), back rower Laishon Albert-Jones (Knights), and interchange forward Matekino Gray (Titans).
Notably, 10 players will be making their NRLW debuts, among them Black Ferns Sevens superstar Michaela Blake and fellow teammates Tysha Ikenasio, Patricia Maliepo, and Shakira Baker.