While surrounded by culture and community at the Koori Knockout, Shaylee Bent received a phone call four years in the making.
It was Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner, informing the edge forward she had been selected in the Australian squad for the upcoming IRL Rugby League World Cup.
"To get that call from Jess after the Koori Knockout grand final was surreal. I can’t believe I am here in the World Cup squad," said Bent.
After not featuring in a Jillaroos squad since 2022, Bent's return to the green and gold comes on the back of an outstanding 2026 NRLW campaign.
Bent made the move from the Gold Coast Titans to the Wests Tigers for the 2026 season to be closer to family.
The decision proved pivotal for the second rower, who played a decisive role in the Tigers’ breakout NRLW season and helped guide the side from wooden spooners to a maiden finals appearance.
Shaylee Bent Try
Bent's remarkable 2026 season earned her Dally M Second Rower of the Year honours and selection in the RLPA Players' Dream Team, reaffirming her status among the NRLW's elite and securing her return to the Jillaroos squad.
Bent's selection carried added significance, coming as she was immersed in celebrations of Indigenous rugby league.
Fresh from the Koori Knockout, Bent transitioned into Jillaroos camp, reinforcing the squad's strong sense of Indigenous culture and identity.
"The thing with the Jillaroos is we embrace culture and First Nations people," Bent said.
"Our girls love learning and embracing our Indigenous culture.
"It keeps us strong, grounded and connected, and it helps us appreciate the land and environment around us."
Match: Australia v Samoa
Round 1 -
home Team
Australia
away Team
Samoa
Venue: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Australia will launch their World Cup campaign at CommBank Stadium against Fetu Samoa on prime-time television on Friday night.
Bent is one of six Indigenous All-Stars in the Jillaroos squad, joining Jaime Chapman, Tamika Upton, Qunicy Dodd, Olivia Kernick and Keilee Joseph in a powerful contingent preparing for the World Cup.
Becoming the world's best! - Julia Robinson
With the Jillaroos camp commencing with a Welcome to Country on Darkinjung Country on the Central Coast, Bent said the experience helped ground the squad.
"We have such a big representation, so we are very proud to have been welcomed on to country by the beach in Terrigal," Chapman said.
"We are super grateful to be part of this campaign, we’ve got the best group of girls, and it’s been such a positive start."
Chapman credits Jillaroos and Indigenous All-Stars coach Jess Skinner with cultivating a strong Indigenous connection within the squad, inspiring both Indigenous and non-Indigenous players.
"We have quite a big crew of Indigenous girls in this team and are led by the best of the best, Jess Skinner," Chapman said.
"To play under her and alongside my sisters is such a privilege.
"It's inspirational, the work she does for Indigenous pathways and for our young girls."
Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.
