LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

'So special': Southwell ready to lead and learn in Test debut

Jesse Southwell, the new halfback for the Jillaroos, is set to lead her team in her Test debut while also eager to learn from her experienced teammates. Even in her first official outing in the green and gold, she is focused on gaining insights from those around her.

Heading to the Broncos next season, Southwell will be teaming up with Jillaroos co-captain Ali Brigginshaw in the halves, hinting at the future dynamics for the defending champions. As they gear up to face Fetu Samoa, Southwell has expressed her enthusiasm for soaking in every aspect of the experience.

With her move to Red Hill revealed just a week before entering camp, the ongoing Pacific Championships have been a valuable opportunity for Southwell to bond with her future clubmates, including Brigginshaw and Julia Robinson, as well as reconnect with Tamika Upton, with whom she won two premierships at Newcastle.

At just 20, Southwell boasts several premierships, a State of Origin series victory, and a Prime Minister's XIII appearance last season; she is excited about the prospect of challenging herself in this new setting.