New North Queensland Toyota Cowboys NRLW Head Coach Ricky Henry has named a 26-player squad for his first game in charge – a trial against the Gold Coast Titans in Gordonvale on Sunday morning.
Star recruit Jakiya Whitfeld will make her first appearance in Cowboys colours, partnering Jasmine Peters in the centres.
A former Australian Rugby Sevens representative, Whitfeld has been a revelation since transitioning to rugby league in 2022. The 23-year-old is capable of playing any position in the back five, scoring four tries in nine games playing on the wing for the Wests Tigers in 2023.
The versatile China Polata has been named at second row after splitting her time between wing and middle forward last year.
Sunday’s game kicks off at 11.30am and can be watched live at cowboys.com.au.
>>> Henry: I want to get a look at her in the centres
Cowboys team to play Titans:
7. Kirra Dibb (c)
8. Tallisha Harden (c)
10. Makenzie Weale
11. Lily Peacock
12. China Polata
13. Bree Chester
Interchange
14. Alisha Foord
15. Essay Banu
16. Sareka Mooka
17. Lillian Yarrow
18. Shaniah Power
19. Shellie Long
21. Jetaya Faifua
22. Kayla Shepherd
23. Ana Malupo
24. Libby Surha
26. Emily Bella
