Ahead of tonight’s Men’s and Women’s U/19’s Origin matches, we take a look at the young Wests Tigers players set to star for NSW.
Luke Laulilii
In a huge achievement, Luke Laulilii is the only player selected in the Men’s U/19’s match to have already made his NRL debut.
The outside back/fullback played his first match in the top grade last year against the Raiders, just a week after his 18th birthday.
He scored a try for his troubles too, showcasing his powerful running ability in the process.
Luke Laulilii Try
Laulilii has since gone on to play seven matches at NRL level, grabbing three more four-pointers.
The 19-year-old has showcased his talents more recently in the NSW Cup for Western Suburbs, where he has shone for the Magpies.
Luke will line up in #2 for NSW in tonight’s match.
Evie McGrath
Evie McGrath is another who will feature in tonight’s matches having already made their top flight debut.
McGrath, a No. 6 who possesses a strong running game, is also one of seven NSW players who featured in last year’s 46-4 win over their Queensland opponents.
McGrath scored a try in the win, with her speed and running ability on full display as she crossed the line.
Evie McGrath Try
She also grabbed a try on debut at NRLW level in a narrow loss to the Cowboys, as she showcased her handy short kicking game.
On a Development contract in 2024, McGrath joins the club’s NRLW Top 24 squad ahead of the upcoming season.
Evie will once again play in the #6 jumper for NSW.
Ella Walker
A stand-out front-rower for the Wests Tigers’ Tarsha Gale Cup team, Ella Walker joins Evie McGrath in the NSW lineup this evening.
A tough and powerful ball-carrier, Walker helped the Wests Tigers’ U/19’s side to a semi-final appearance earlier in 2024.
Ella Walker Try
She also represented the City U/19’s squad in their 27-26 win over Country in May.
Ella will line up in the #8 jersey for NSW tonight.
Heamasi Makasini
While Heamasi Makasini is the 18th player reserve tonight, he has impressed enough to be selected in the squad at just 17-years-old.
A tall, athletic, and powerful centre, Makasini was named Harold Matthews Cup Player of the Series in 2024 after helping Western Suburbs Magpies to a Grand Final appearance.
‘Masi’ is still young enough to feature in the U/19’s Origin fixture in 2026; the same year he moves into the Wests Tigers’ Top 30 squad.
The Women's State of Origin U19s match kicks off at 5:45pm and will be broadcast live on 9Gem, 9Now, Kayo and Foxtel.
The Men's State of Origin U19s match kicks off at 7:45pm and will be broadcast live on Nine, 9Now, Kayo and Foxtel.
