Dally M winner Olivia Kernick’s shock Jillaroos axing halted Sydney Roosters’ NRLW premiership celebrations as the NRL launches an investigation into her international omission.
On Wednesday The Daily Telegraph reported the ARL Commission launched an investigation into the Australian team selection snub of Kernick.
The ARLC are attempting to seek answers surrounding the stunning omission from the Australian team of the best player from the women’s game.
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It’s believed that some members of the ARLC have been left bemused as to how the Roosters premiership-winner was overlooked for the Jillaroos squad that will feature in the upcoming Pacific Championships.
ABC News reported news of her Jillaroos axing affected the Roosters’ title celebrations, given Kernick had won the Dally M Medal and scored two tries in the premiership decider.
Speaking on the Upfront podcast alongside Roosters teammates Millie Elliott and Keeley Davis, Kernick said the team was enjoying their post-premiership party.
But Elliott added: “Until the Jillaroos squad came out.
“It was a bittersweet day,” Kernick said.
Kernick played in the Jillaroos’ triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign and in both games of last year’s Pacific Championships.
The 23-year-old back-rower was also a key part of NSW’s State of Origin campaign, starting all three games at lock, alongside back-rowers Yasmin Clydsdale and Kezie Apps, both of whom made the national team.
Kernick and Caitlan Johnston were the only starting Sky Blues forwards to miss out on Jillaroos selection.
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Jillaroos coach Brad Donald incorrectly said while explaining the decision that Kernick came off the bench in Origin.
“Don’t tell me Brad Donald didn’t watch the Origin games, and he’s the Australian coach. Tell me that didn’t happen,” Penrith great Greg Alexander said on his SEN radio show.
Andrew Voss replied: “Bloody hell, that’s a scandal. That’s seriously bad. You can’t quote that at a press conference.”“It’s almost scandalous. It’s really worth some investigation here.”
Kernick wore No.15 in the first two games but was elevated to the starting side on both occasions.
Kernick admitted she was disappointed to have missed out but glad she was with her premiership teammates when she got the bad news.
“You know what? It was sad and I know what I need to work on,” Kernick said.
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“I was with my teammates and I actually enjoyed the rest of the day. I had a good time.
“Disappointed for myself but so happy for the girls and can’t wait to cheer them on. Obviously would’ve loved to have been in there with you girls.
“We’ve worked really hard this year, we’ve all dialled in, we’ve all made so many sacrifices in our relationships, families. It’s been such a big year for all of us.”
The Jillaroos will face Papua New Guinea in the first game of the Pacific Championships at Brisbane’s Lang Park on Friday, October 18, followed by the Kangaroos’ clash with Tonga.
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