By: Annabelle Banfield /AAP
NSW Blues star, Tiana Penitani Gray has played centre, wing and five-eighth for her state, NSW, Australia, but made her back-row debut in the Women's State of Origin series opener in Newcastle on Thursday night, in front of 20,179 at McDonald Jones Stadium.
The 2026 Ampol Women's State of Origin series is a three-game series taking place in April and May 2026, with the next two matches scheduled for May 14 (Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane), and May 28 (Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast). The series features the NSW Blues and Queensland Maroons. The series began with Game I in Newcastle, on 30 April, with the Blues looking to defend their 2025 title. NSW have drawn first blood in the series with an 11-6 win over Queensland.
Tonga halfback
A shock selection last year at five-eighth for NSW, Penitani Gray played all three games in the halves for coach John Strange and helped the NSW Blues to a 2025 series victory.
The Cronulla NRLW star has previously played centre and wing for her state, as well as halfback for Tonga.
But joining the forward pack was an imposing challenge for the 30-year-old to conquer, as her experience in the second row is limited to just 13 minutes in a trial game.
Yet her history as an adaptable and versatile athlete is creating an air of confidence ahead of her latest challenge.
"I've played like a back-rower in the centres for a little while," said Penitani Gray.
"I think that's a big part of my game and I'm a big communicator on my edge.
"I absolutely am not underestimating the role by no means, I know it's a really big job, but I'm really excited and I think the attributes of being a good back-rower are the skills that I have.
"I'm really excited for the opportunity and really grateful that Strangey and the coaching staff and the girls have trusted me to be able to do a job there."
