Queensland Maroons Consider Titans' Destiny Mino-Sinapati for Origin Wing

Destiny Mino-Sinapati, a player with the Gold Coast Titans, is training with the Queensland Maroons extended squad and is being considered for a wing position. The Maroons are preparing for the three-game State of Origin series that begins on April 30 at McDonald Jones Stadium.

Mino-Sinapati stated that earning a State of Origin debut is a major goal, while also focusing on a potential first Rugby League World Cup appearance with Samoa later this year.

Team Context and Changes

The Game One squad for Queensland will feature changes due to Tarryn Aiken's ongoing ACL injury and the retirement of Ali Brigginshaw. Tamika Upton, who served as co-captain last year, remains the team's fullback. Mino-Sinapati said she has been learning from Upton.

Mino-Sinapati described the current camp as having a new coaching team and noted that younger players and those who typically do not speak up are finding their voice. She stated that versatility among the outside backs, who have been training in different positions, could be a team strength.

A Dual Focus: Samoa World Cup Ambition

The Rugby League World Cup will be held in Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea later this year. Mino-Sinapati said representing Samoa at the World Cup is a key focus, noting the team worked hard to qualify and that fan support last year was significant.

She referenced Samoa's performance in the 2023 Pacific Championships, where they led New Zealand 20-0 at halftime before losing 22-20, as an experience that boosted the team's confidence.

The Samoan team will now be coached by Frank Pritchard, who takes over from Jamie Soward. Mino-Sinapati described Pritchard as knowing the players well and being a knowledgeable coach and a father figure.

Upcoming Events

• The Ampol State of Origin squads for the women's series will be named on Wednesday, April 21.
• The NRLW season is scheduled to begin in July.