Jillaroos mainstay Whitfeld desperate to crack Origin puzzle

Jakiya Whitfeld, a prominent player for the Jillaroos and the Cowboys, is aiming for her debut with the NSW team as she focuses on a season that she hopes will lead to a World Cup championship.

For the last three years, the winger has been a vital part of the Australian team and significantly contributed to their recent victory in the Pacific Cup against New Zealand.

Despite her successes, a State of Origin debut has so far been out of reach for Whitfeld, a situation she is eager to change in the upcoming season.

In 2024, Whitfeld was named the 18th player for the Blues on two occasions but was ultimately left out during John Strange's first year as coach. Instead, the coach chose Roosters winger Jayme Fressard and positioned Jaime Chapman on the opposite wing.