New faces for Jillaroos in RLWC opener

Australia have named four debutants for their women's Rugby League World Cup opener against the Cook Islands on Thursday.

Fullback Nakia Davis-Welsh, winger Meg Ward, forward Talesha Quinn and utility Lavina O'Mealey have been included in a 19-strong squad as the Jillaroos begin their world title defence at Cronulla's Southern Cross Group Stadium.

Veteran forward Steph Hancock will captain the side against the Cook Islands.

AUSTRALIA: Nakia Davis-Welsh, Karina Brown, Annette Brander, Isabelle Kelly, Meg Ward, Ali Brigginshaw, Caitlin Moran, Stephan Hancock, Brittany Breayley, Rebecca Young, Vanessa Foliaki, Talesha Quinn, Zahara Temara. Bench: Maddie Studdon, Lavina O'Mealey, Simaima Taufa, Kezie Apps, Corban McGregor, Heather Ballinger (two to be omitted).