LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

Strange excited by depth of Māori talent for All Stars clash

Māori All Stars coach John Strange is preparing to field the largest group of New Zealand-based players in the event's history. He anticipates a strong turnout from fans in Hamilton for the women's match, following last season's record-breaking attendance for the NRLW's stand-alone games.

This will mark Strange's first time coaching the Māori wāhine as they face the Indigenous All Stars on February 15 at FMG Stadium Waikato. Strange previously guided New South Wales to a State of Origin title and led the Sydney Roosters to the grand final last season.

A two-time NRLW premiership-winning coach, Strange has Māori roots through his mother, Carol, who hails from Rotorua and relocated to Australia during her teenage years.

The return of the Warriors to the NRLW last season has expanded Strange's options for New Zealand-based talent, allowing debut opportunities for players such as Payton Takimoana, Shakira Baker, and Matekino Gray.

At just 22, Takimoana was the NRLW's leading tryscorer, accumulating 15 tries in 11 matches after recently switching from rugby union, alongside Baker, a former Black Ferns player who made her Test debut for the Kiwi Ferns during last year's Pacific Cup.