LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The women's State of Origin is gearing up for a three-match showdown, with NSW aiming to kick off the series with a bang after a surprising selection move by coach Kylie Hilder.
Teen sensation Jesse Southwell has been left out of the lineup for the opening clash, alongside her sister Hannah, who also didn't make the cut.
Jesse, a rising star from Newcastle who had a stellar debut in last year's Origin match and clinched the NRLW premiership with the Knights, has been left feeling "disappointed" by the decision.
However, Hilder assured that there's still a chance for her to make a comeback in the series.
Meanwhile, Parramatta's Rachael Pearson will team up with Roosters' Corban Baxter in the playmaking roles, leading a squad filled with seasoned players and bolstered by two debutants for the showdown against Queensland at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, May 16.
"In true sporting fashion, Jesse is taking the setback in her stride.
She's young and has plenty of time to shine," Hilder commented on the lineup change.
"We're focusing on the strengths of the halves and the exciting lineup we have for the game."
It's a tough blow for the Southwell sisters, but in the world of Rugby League, anything can happen.
Stay tuned for a thrilling start to the Origin series as NSW looks to make their mark on the field.