LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Southwell is set to make her Test debut in the Pacific Championships, joining four other uncapped players in Skinner's 21-player squad.
Often recognized as one of the most promising talents in the NRLW, Southwell's selection follows the early season-ending injury of Sydney Roosters star Tarryn Aiken.
However, it's likely Southwell would have been chosen even without this turn of events, as the Newcastle talent has long been seen as a future Jillaroo.
Skinner has been familiar with Southwell since her teenage years, having been an assistant coach at Newcastle when she began to establish herself. Additionally, she coached Southwell in the Prime Minister's XIII last year, and served as an assistant during Southwell's week in the Jillaroos camp at last year's Pacific Cup.
"She is the future of the game and deserves to be in this team," Skinner said.