LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
NRLW has confirmed that hooker Avery-Rose Carmont will serve as the NZ Warriors' 18th player for the Magic Round match against North Queensland at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, with a kick-off set for 11.50am local time (1.50pm NZT).
The starting 17 remains unchanged from the lineup announced at the 24-hour deadline yesterday, featuring Tyra Wetere and Ivana Lauitiitiiti making their debuts in both the club and NRLW.
Due to personal reasons preventing Michaela Brake from playing, 19-year-old Wetere has stepped in on the right wing.
Wetere, alongside former Black Fern Shakira Baker, was among the first two players this season to be signed by the Warriors from a rugby union background.
Prop Lauitiiti (18), daughter of the renowned Ali Lauitiiti, joins the bench, taking the place of former Knights forward Felila Kia, who was set to make her debut for the club but has been sidelined due to injury.
Experienced halfback Emily Curtain returns to the lineup after recovering from an injury, although middle forward Matekino Gray remains out.
This marks the Warriors' second trip to Newcastle within two weeks, following their 20-36 defeat against the Knights in round three.