Olivia Kernick Opens Up About the Unexpected Disappointment of Her Axing Before Making a Comeback with the Jillaroos

Olivia Kernick has opened up about her unexpected exclusion from the Jillaroos last year as the Dally M Medal winner gears up to don the green and gold once again.

The back-rower, who claimed the top accolade in the NRLW in 2024, was oddly left out by the former coach Brad Donald during the Pacific Championships at the end of the year.

This decision sparked significant backlash at the time, yet Kernick chose to keep her thoughts private and refrained from criticising Donald and his coaching team.

Now, after being reintegrated into the Australian squad for their upcoming showdown with England in Las Vegas on Sunday (AEDT), the 24-year-old is eager to share her perspective and elucidate why she’s excited to return to the national setup.

“I was genuinely let down not to be selected for the Pacific Champs squad,” Kernick remarked to AAP.

“Ultimately, those decisions are made by others, and my focus can only be on what I can control, which is my performance.”

“I chose to embrace the positives from a challenging situation and seized the opportunity to visit New Zealand, reconnect with family, and participate in a Maori tournament.”

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Kernick was a standout performer for the Roosters during their premiership run last year, yet her triumph was somewhat dampened when Donald made the call on selections.

She confirmed reports on when the ex-coach conveyed his decision to her.

“It’s an incredibly tough moment to make the team announcement and inform the players because the coach wants to avoid disrupting anyone’s focus ahead of a grand final,” Kernick explained.

“They need to prepare while keeping the players informed about the Pacific Champs.”

“Unfortunately, the announcement coincided with our Mad Monday celebrations, but I was grateful to have my teammates around me in such a positive environment.”

Kernick is set to start on the edge for the Jillaroos at Allegiant Stadium.