The Jillaroos have confirmed their squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with Isabelle Kelly taking over as captain after Ali Brigginshaw was axed.

The Broncos half, hanging up the boots at the end of the year, was expected to have one last international tournament before retiring, but was overlooked by head coach Jess Skinner.

She was emotional in announcing the news on Monday morning, with Kelly, the star Rooster who was critical in the grand final domination on Sunday, to take over leadership of the squad.

The undefeated premiers dominate the squad, with 8 of the 23 players coming from the premiers, while there is plenty of experience throughout the squad.

That includes Roosters star Millie Elliott, who played her final game of NRLW on SUnday afternoon.

Roosters duo Sariah Paki and Jocelyn Kelleher, and North Queensland Cowboys prop Makenzie Weale are the three debutants in the squad.

“To be selected to represent Australia at a Rugby League World Cup is one of the highest honours in our game, and every player named in this squad has earned the opportunity through their performances, consistency and the way they contribute to the team," coach Skinner said of her squad for the tournament.

“Selection was incredibly competitive and there were some very difficult decisions, but we believe this group gives us the balance, and versatility we need for a World Cup campaign.

“What excites me most is the mix of experience and emerging talent, and the different strengths each player brings. We now have the responsibility to come together, represent the jersey with pride and make the most of the opportunity to play a World Cup on home soil.”

Jillaroos squad for 2026 Rugby League World Cup

Isabelle Kelly (Captain, Sydney Roosters)
Tarryn Aiken (Sydney Roosters)
Kezie Apps (Wests Tigers)
Shaylee Bent (Wests Tigers)
Abbi Church (Parramatta Eels)
Jaime Chapman (Gold Coast Titans)
Quincy Dodd (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
Millie Elliott (Sydney Roosters)
Olivia Higgins (Newcastle Knights)
Ellie Johnston (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
Keilee Joseph (Parramatta Eels)
Jocelyn Kelleher (Sydney Roosters)
Olivia Kernick (Sydney Roosters)
Keeley Nizza (Sydney Roosters)
Sariah Paki (Sydney Roosters)
Tiana Penitani Gray (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
Julia Robinson (Brisbane Broncos)
Jessica Sergis (Sydney Roosters)
Jesse Southwell (Brisbane Broncos)
Simaima Taufa (Canberra Raiders)
Sarah Togatuki (Wests Tigers)
Tamika Upton (Brisbane Broncos)
Makenzie Weale (North Queensland Cowboys)