Coach Jay Tregonning says Wallaroos stars 'fully committed' to World Cup mission

How Rugby Australia would compete with the NRLW's jam-packed 2022 schedule - which boasts two NRLW premierships, State of Origin and a World Cup - has been a source of intrigue amid concern rugby union's best players could be poached.

But new Wallaroos coach Jay Tregonning says a draft calendar includes Super W, which will revert to a six-week season, and up to five Tests leading into a World Cup he "absolutely" believes Australia can win for the first time in history.

Tregonning has held discussions with all 40 members of his players of national interest squad as he builds towards next year's World Cup in New Zealand.

Among the squad are the likes of captain Grace Hamilton and Mahalia Murphy. Both have featured in the NRLW, with the latter being chased this year by both the Sydney Roosters and Newcastle Knights.

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"Some of the discussions were around what was offered this year from NRLW for them, but they're fully committed to the Wallaroos program and Super W program for their states which is outstanding," Tregonning said.

"With the NRLW being moved back to early next year, that might limit us from seeing some of the other girls that could be in contention for the team, but ultimately, Australia is blessed with lots of opportunities for people to participate in different sports and it's just the nature we're in.

"We want to make sure the girls we pick within the Wallaroos program will have that commitment to their states or be part of a rugby program, even through the sevens.

"NRLW, it's there. It's the same as NRL for the men and there's that competition in the market for athletes, but I feel the girls who are committed to our program are worthy of being there and will do the job for us."

Tregonning says Super W will be "a big factor" in the Wallaroos' build-up to the World Cup in October, with camps and Tests being planned for windows in June-July and September.

"It's a shame the past two years have slowed the momentum down," Tregonning said.

"With the introduction of Super W in 2018 and then the Test matches they played in 2019, I really thought they were gaining some momentum and started to look really good from a rugby point of view.

"I can't question the professionalism. Even though they're not professional athletes, the commitment they have shown throughout this time and training towards the unknown has been outstanding.

"I really think the group of girls we've got have got the capability of winning the World Cup."

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