Three legends of the game will take the field one last time for this grand final, as Ali Brigginshaw plays her final match for the Broncos, while Roosters forwards Millie Elliott and Corban Baxter retire following the decider. Their exits mark a significant transition for the competition, with Brigginshaw noted for a career spent challenging the industry and paving the way for the current generation of NRLW stars.
For fans and players, this match serves as a crucial preview of international talent ahead of the upcoming IRL Rugby League World Cup. The Broncos enter the game as defending premiers after navigating a mid-season form slump and the suspension of Brigginshaw, while the Roosters arrive at the decider on an undefeated streak, seeking revenge for their loss in last year's final.
According to NRL.com, the match features several players set for international duty, including Dally M Medalist Tamika Upton and centers Isabelle Kelly and Jess Sergis. Broncos winger Julia Robinson, a reigning Golden Boot winner, emphasized that while the grand final is a massive event, the focus remains on preparation and supporting the younger players coming through the ranks.
Coverage of the women's decider begins at 4pm AEDT in Sydney. This fixture is the fourth time these two clubs have met on grand final day in nine NRLW seasons.