NRLW: New Zealand Kiwi Ferns, Brisbane Broncos centre Amy Turner one of five fresh faces in Kiwi Ferns squad

Kiwi Ferns squad named for clash with Tonga

Author: Alicia Newton NRLW Reporter
Timestamp: Wed 15 Jun 2022, 12:32 PM

Broncos centre Amy Turner is among the fresh faces picked by Kiwi Ferns coach Ricky Henry for the upcoming women's Test match against Tonga on June 25.

Turner, 38, moved across from the Australian rugby sevens program to the NRL Telstra Women's Premiership in 2019 after representing Australia for four years, including winning gold at the Olympics.

The New Zealand-born centre is one of five uncapped players named in the 19-player squad with Broncos teammate Roxy Murdoch, Dragons centre Page McGregor, Titans winger Hailee-Jay Maunsell all in line for an international debut.

The Kiwi Ferns last played a Test match against a Samoan invitational side in 2020.

Among the core group of players in the squad include Titans forward Georgia Hale, Kiwi Ferns captain Krystal Rota and NRLW leading try-scorer Madison Bartlett.

"We've listed a group of individuals that have rightfully earned their spots, and we acknowledge them for their efforts in both the NRLW competition and Sky Sport Women's Premiership," Kiwi Ferns coach Henry said.

"We welcome five new players to the team who I'm confident will flourish under our veteran leaders; we also see the return of some key names from our 2020 Test against Samoa, this time with debut NRLW seasons under their belt.

"This Tonga Test allows us to build a solid foundation ahead of the Rugby League World Cup come October. It's been nearly two years since we have donned the Black and White jersey, so this Test back home in front of whānau and fans Is going to be special."

The Kiwi Ferns will take on Tonga, who will name their squad later this week, before the men's match at Mt Smart Stadium.