Superstar fullback Tamika Upton will return for the Pacific Championships final against arch-rivals New Zealand after recovering from a calf injury.
The two-time Dally M Medallist was named in the Australian line-up for Sunday’s title showdown in Sydney after missing its hard-fought 10-6 win over the Kiwis at Eden Park last weekend.
The Jillaroos ace will reclaim her number one jersey from Abbi Church, who has been included on the bench at Western Sydney Stadium after scoring a crucial try and setting up another in her impressive Test debut last Sunday.
In two further changes to the starting side, Olivia Higgins comes in at hooker to replace the injured Keeley Davis (shoulder), and Cowboys NRLW flyer Jakiya Whitfeld will start on the wing.
Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner said the team was looking to improve on a gritty performance, with the two world’s best teams going into battle.
“We knew last week in Auckland was going to be a step up and there were a lot of positives in coming away with a win in a tight contest, but we know we have to be better in all facets of the game to come out on top again in the final,” Skinner said.
“We are excited for the challenge of playing for a major trophy in front of our home fans. It’s going to be an incredible atmosphere, and we want to make Australia proud with our performance on Sunday.”
FULL JILLAROOS SQUAD: Tamika Upton, Julia Robinson, Isabelle Kelly, Tiana Penitani Gray, Jakiya Whitfeld, Ali Brigginshaw (c), Jesse Southwell, Ellie Johnston, Olivia Higgins, Jessika Elliston, Kezie Apps (c), Yasmin Clydsdale, Olivia Kernick, Quincy Dodd, Keilee Joseph, Jessica Sergis, Rima Butler, Sarah Togatuki, Abbi Church, Jocelyn Kelleher.
AAP
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