Three Raiders named in NZ Kiwi Ferns squad

Head coach Ricky Henry has named a new-look Kiwi Ferns squad, featuring a potential 11 debutantes, to challenge Australia and Tonga in the upcoming Pacific Championships.

New faces include NRLW Dally M rookie of the year winner Annessa Biddle, who impressed in her first season with the Sharks and Olympic gold medallist and dual code star Tyla Nathan-Wong, who played her first season in the NRLW with the Dragons this year.

Brisbane forward Jasmine Fogavini and Amelia Pasikala from the Roosters are new additions to the forward pack, while Canberra duo Ashleigh Quinlan and Cheyelle Robins-Reti will also be a chance of making their international debuts.

While there have been a number of changes made to the squad that last faced Australia in the Rugby League World Cup final loss last year, experienced campaigners including Golden Boot winner Raecene McGregor, Titans captain Georgia Hale, Apii Nicholls and Mya Hill-Moana return to the squad, as well as powerhouse Brisbane and Dally M Centre of the Year Mele Hufanga, who lit up the World Cup with her performance for the Ferns last year.