The NRLW’s best player, Tamika Upton, will make her Jillaroos debut in the Pacific Championships after a calf injury cruelled her chances of representing Australia at last year’ World Cup.

Upton, who won the Karyn Murphy Medal after starring in Newcastle’s thrilling Grand Final win over the Titans, has beaten out Dragons rival Teagen Berry for the fullback’s role in Brad Donald’s 21-woman squad.

The Jillaroos will play New Zealand at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on October 14, before a return bout at AAMI Park in Melbourne on October 28.

Ali Brigginshaw and Kezie Apps are co-captains of a squad which contains just two other uncapped players in North Queensland’s Emma Manzelmann and Titans prop Jess Elliston.

Tamika Upton(Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

“I’m extremely excited to see what this squad is capable of,” Donald said.

“All of the players have shown great form in the NRLW competition. We have a good mix of experience and youth to ensure the best possible showing against the Kiwi Ferns.”

Jillaroos squad

Tarryn Aiken Roosters
Kezie Apps Tigers
Shaylee Bent Titans
Ali Brigginshaw Broncos
Lauren Brown Titans
Jaime Chapman Titans
Kennedy Cherrington Eels
Yasmin Clydsdale Knights
Keeley Davis Roosters
Jess Elliston* Titans
Caitlan Johnston Knights
Isabelle Kelly Roosters
Olivia Kernick Roosters
Emma Manzelmann* Cowboys
Shannon Mato Titans
Evania Pelite Titans
Julia Robinson Broncos
Jessica Sergis Roosters
Simaima Taufa Raiders
Emma Tonegato Sharks
Tamika Upton* Knights
*debutantes