Three-time IRL Women's Rugby League World Cup winners Australia take on Samoa in their opening game of the 2026 World Cup tournement on Friday, 16th October, in Sydney (8:05pm KO local time)

Jillaroos rookie Jocelyn Kelleher is set to make her international debut after being named to partner Tarryn Aiken in the halves for Friday's showdown with Fetu Samoa.

The selection comes after the pair led the Roosters to the NRLW premiership, with Australia coach Jess Skinner backing Kelleher and Aiken to continue their successful club partnership in the IRL Rugby League World Cup.

The prime-time clash at CommBank Stadium will also see Jaime Chapman make her long-awaited return to the Test arena, while Shaylee Bent will play her first match for the Jillaroos since the 2021 World Cup.

Taliah Fuimaono will link up with Pauline Piliae-Rasabale in the halves for Samoa.

Australia (squad): Jocelyn KELLEHER, Tarryn AIKEN, Olivia HIGGINS, Shaylee BENT, Olivia KERNICK, Ellie JOHNSTON, Makenzie WEALE, Abbi CHURCH, Jesse SOUTHWELL, Sariah Paki, Quincy DODD

Samoa (squad): Destiny Sinapati, Mercedez Taulelei-Saila, Monica Tagoai, Sarina Masaga, Freedom Ropati, Taliah FUIMAONO, Pauline Piliae, Annetta Nuuausala, Mary Jane Taito, Laikha (Belinda-Jane) Clarke, Evania Isa'ako , Ivana Lolesio, Evelyn Roberts, Fanua Rimoni, Amber Hall, Tavarna Papalii, Jaydika Tafua, Jetaya Faifua, Christabelle Onesome-Tuilaepa, Christian Pio