New Zealand women's national rugby league team coach Kelvin Wright has named a host of in-form players from the inaugural NRL Women's Premiership for Saturday's test against Australia.
The ageless Laura Mariu and Honey Hireme will co-captain the Kiwi Ferns with four members of NRLW champions Brisbane in the starting side.
Wright will hope halfback Kimiora Nati can continue her purple patch, having been crowned player of the match in the NRLW grand final in which she scored a hat-trick of tries against the Sydney Roosters.
St George Illawarra star centre Hireme and respected Warriors captain Laura Mariu, both 37, will share the leadership duties for the Mt Smart Stadium contest.
The pair boast a combined 36 years of international experience, stretching back to when the Kiwi Ferns were dominant in trans-Tasman clashes.
The tables have since turned with the Jillaroos unbeaten over the past two years, including the 2017 World Cup which was capped by a 23-16 win over New Zealand in the final.
World Cup player of the tournament was Teuila Fotu-Moala, a devastating performer for the Broncos, will look to back that form up against Australia.
Fotu-Moala, back-rower Mariu and prop Ngatokotoru Arakua are key figures in a pack expected to challenge Australia up front.
Winger Karley Te Kawa returns after a five-year absence from the Test ranks.
Two debutants were selected with Onjeurlina Leiataua to start while fellow- Warriors forward Sui Pauaraisa is on the bench.
Wright was pleased with how his players had responded to a new-look coaching group.
Former NRL prop Justin Morgan was introduced as an assistant coach while retired Warriors and Kiwis great Simon Mannering is a trainer.
Kiwi Ferns side:
Apii Nicholls, Karley Te Kawa, Honey Hireme, Maitua Feterika, Langi Veainu, Raecene McGregor, Kimiora Nati, Ngatokotoru Arakua, Nita Maynard, Aieshaleigh Smalley, Onjeurlina Leiataua, Teuila Fotu-Moala, Laura Mariu.
Interchange (from): Georgia Hale, Annetta-Claudia Nuuausala, Sui Pauaraisa, Amber Kani, Raquel Anderson-Pittman, Lilieta Maumau (Two to be ommitted).
AAP
