Wests Tigers NRLW standouts Kezie Apps and Sarah Togatuki have secured coveted spots in the NSW Blues lineup for Game One of the highly anticipated Ampol Women’s State of Origin series, set to kick off next week in Brisbane. Apps, a seasoned presence in the Blues squad since her debut in 2014, brings her wealth of experience to the field, having notched up 11 appearances for NSW. Meanwhile, Togatuki, recognized as Wests Tigers’ inaugural NRLW Player of the Year, boasts an impressive track record with five games for the Blues, cementing her status as a valuable asset since her State of Origin debut in 2020.
Eager to redeem last year’s disappointment of a series loss, Apps, serving as Wests Tigers NRLW Co-captain, expresses her pride in representing her state once more. “It is always an honour to represent my state, and I am thrilled to have gained selection,” says Apps. With this year’s series expanded to three games, she underscores the talent and unity within the team, emphasizing her enthusiasm to contribute alongside her fellow teammates.
Equally thrilled to don the Blues jersey again, Togatuki shares her excitement, relishing the opportunity to showcase her skills on the Origin stage. “I’m stoked to be playing Origin again, and I can’t wait to rip in with these girls,” she exclaims, highlighting the significance of representing her club, Wests Tigers, in this prestigious competition.
Apps and Roosters player Isabelle Kelly will lead the team once more as co-captains, instilling confidence and leadership among the squad.
The commencement of the 2024 Ampol Women’s State of Origin series at Suncorp Stadium on Thursday, May 16, marks a historic milestone in women’s rugby league. With the series expanded to three games for the first time, NSW aims to reclaim the Origin Shield after Queensland clinched victory in 2023. The subsequent matches will be held in Newcastle on June 6 and Townsville on June 27, promising an exhilarating display of talent and fierce competition as both teams vie for supremacy. With the women’s Origin honor roll currently tied at 3-all, NSW is poised for a determined effort to secure victory and etch their name in history once more.