Ruan Sims to start at prop for Women's National Championships opener

Parish has been impressed by the standard of football at training and is excited to see what the team will produce, especially in their first match against the Australian Defence Force on Thursday.

"I've been really impressed with their enthusiasm, commitment and the skill set from of a lot of them," Parish said.

"It is a fantastic opportunity for the 11 players selected from our country championships to showcase their talent and learn from some of the best rugby league players in the country like Ruan Sims and Kezie Apps.

"We've got a combination of young and experienced players so it's a good mix and I'm sure they will benefit from playing alongside one another."

Despite big names from last year's championship-winning team like Sam Bremner and Isabelle Kelly not appearing on the roster, Parish is confident in the crop of players he has selected this year.

"We've lost a couple of players but as one door shuts another one opens and we've got the nucleus of a very good team.

"I'm excited to see the girls take the field to defend their title and most importantly, make the most of their opportunity."

Parish's players to watch throughout the Championship include 17-year-old Riverina Bulls representative Tess Staines and her team mates Takilele Katoa and Emma Hickey, along with CRL Newcastle recruits Simone Smith and Bobbi Law.

For game one of Thursday, which kicks-off at 1:15pm, Sims will start at prop alongside Takilele Katoa, with Keeley Davis at hooker.

Bega's Kezie Apps is in the backrow, along with Holli Wheeler and Hannah Southwell.

Tess Staines will start at fullback with Shakiah Tungai and Rikeya Horne on the wings and Bobbi Law and Gab Suckling in the centres - with Kirra Dibb and Simone Smith the halves.

Kylie Hilder, Ellie Johnston, Vanessa Foliaki and Kaitlyn Phillips will start on the bench.

NSW Country's second game is on Saturday against Queensland Country from 1:45pm.