'Quite difficult': Dally M Medal winner Olivia Kernick snubbed in shock Jillaroos selection call
Updated . First published at
Olivia Kernick has been overlooked for the Jilaroos squad in one of the most bizarre selection calls in recent memory.
Despite claiming the Dally M Medal and starring in the Roosters grand final win with a double against the Sharks, the back-rower was left out of the 21-player group.
Kernick is one of the game's elite edge forwards, but with Kezie Apps earning co-captain status, head coach Brad Donald claims it was too tough to pick both.
READ MORE: Teddy brutally axed in huge Kangaroos shake up
READ MORE: Billy's big call on 'brave' Storm after heartbreak
READ MORE: Five clubs urged to lure Longmire away from Swans
"I think when you've got the captain in your position it is quite difficult," he said.
Olivia Kernick poses with her Dally M Medal. Getty
"Liv is probably not too far off. She would sort of be the next one in if something went down. I think when players like that miss out it shows how strong the women's game is.
"I've spoken to all the incumbents and obviously they are all disappointed. They all know what they have to work on to put their hand up for World Cup selection in two years time.
"They are never good calls to make, but we always make sure we make them."
Ali Brigginshaw will share the leadership role with Apps, while the Aussies will take a star-studded backline into the end-of-year tournament.
Sara Togatuki, Jessika Elliston, Olivia Higgins, Abbi Church and Quincy Dodd are all in line for a potential international debut.
Mahalia Murphy of the Eels is tackled by Rikeya Horne of the Tigers. Getty
Sam Bremner was notably missing from the squad, with Donald confirming the star fullback had no interest in donning the Jillaroos jersey as she returns to retirement.
Nine years after making her debut in the green and gold, Mahalia Murphy is set to make her second appearance.
"Mahalia is a fantastic player," Donald said.
"She scored three tries in her debut for the Jillaroos at Suncorp Stadium in 2015. She gives us a bit more versatility, she's a back rower at the Parramatta Eels but she's played a lot of centre.
"She's had a terrific season, she's led the Parramatta Eels really well this year and it's great to see her back in the side."
The women's Pacific Championships begins on Friday, October 18.
Jillaroos squad
Tarryn Aiken, Kezie Apps (c), Ali Brigginshaw (c), Lauren Brown, Abbi Church, Yasmin Clydsdale, Quincy Dodd, Millie Elliott, Jessika Elliston, Olivia Higgins, Keilee Joseph, Isabelle Kelly, Shannon Mato, Mahalia Murphy, Tiana Penitani, Julia Robinson, Simaima Taufa, Jess Sergis, Sara Togatuki, Tamika Upton, Jakiya Whitfeld
