Brown tickled pink to teach greenhorns the Jillaroos way
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"Captain of the kids" Karina Brown is relishing the chance to instil Jillaroos values in the next generation of female stars in the Prime Minister's XIII clash against Fiji Bulakula on Friday in Suva.
The 30-year-old former Jillaroos winger has six years of international experience under her belt and will captain a youthful squad of talent on the cusp of future representative and NRLW honours.
Among the names to join Brown include Sydney Roosters teammates Kirra Dibb, Jasmin Allende, Bobbi Law and Caitlan Johnston, who all made their NRLW debut this season.
"I'm captain of the kids this weekend and I'm absolutely thrilled about it," Brown said.
"They're all so talented and I love the excitement. For most of them this is the first time they'll pull on the green and gold jersey and it's something I've been fortunate to do a few times but I still get goose bumps knowing that I'll run out leading this group.
"When I debuted, I was in England at the World Cup in 2013 we won that match but I was really scared and nervous playing alongside some of the greats like Tahnee Norris and Nat Dwyer but they made me feel really composed and part of the team.
"That now falls on me to make sure I get these girls ready for Friday and remind them they're here because of all the talent they have."
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Brown missed selection in the Jillaroos side for the October 25 Test against New Zealand in Wollongong with Dragons winger Shakiah Tungai in line to make her international debut and Corban McGregor recalled to the side.
"All good things come to an end but I am so privileged and humbled to be able to still be a part of it and take this team on Friday, I'm honoured Brad chose me to do that," Brown said.
"My role is to instil the Jillaroos values so when they get there they live and breathe it. We always talk about leaving the jersey in a better place and wherever we go leaving the area in a better place.
"In Fiji it's about being respectful and being selfless. Brad's biggest strength is he really knows how to bring a team together and that's what we pride ourselves on."
They were left out of the 2021 World Cup, causing coach Adrian Vowles to describe the decision as shattering.
"I think it will be an exciting match, I've never played Fiji before," Brown said.
"They've been together for a week already and they're playing in their own country. I'm expecting there to be a lot of passion."
The PM's XIII side travelled to Suva on Tuesday to prepare for the clash.
