Australia forward Kennedy Cherrington is ready to make her mark with the next generation of young props at the Women's Rugby League World Cup, while looking to veteran teammate Simaima Taufa for inspiration.
The 24-year-old Parramatta front-rower joins 20-year-old Roosters prop Keilee Joseph, 21-year-old Knights powerhouse Caitlan Johnston and Titans warrior Shannon Mato, 24, in the Jillaroos' engine room.
None of them have played for Australia but Cherrington said they already had a strong connection after a week in camp on the Gold Coast before arriving in England on Monday to prepare for their title defence.
"We are quite competitive against each other, which I love, and then when we come together there is a lot of excitement around our forward pack," Cherrington told AAP.
"With Keilee Joseph I feel like we play similar and can both grind it out.
"Caitlan Johnston I am looking forward to playing with. She has strong carries off the back fence and can get you a quick play the ball.
"Then there's Shannon Mato from the Titans. We haven't played together but I can already feel the connection. There's a calmness amongst us because we know what each other is capable of. I think we will be fine in the middle."
Eels captain Taufa and Cherrington formed a powerful combination in the middle during the team's run to the NRLW grand final.
Taufa and co-captain Kezie Apps are the only two Jillaroos forwards left from the 2017 World Cup-winning side.
"I have learned so much from Simaima at Parramatta," Cherrington said.
"She's been my guidance in the background about how to play in the middle and get the best out of me whether in training or off the field.
"We also complement each other. At the back end of the NRLW season we found our flow and forged a really good combo. I think the coaches and the other girls know we can capitalise on that at the World Cup.
"She is not one to say much. She is one to lead by example. When I see her putting her body on the line in this World Cup I am going to do the same."
The Jillaroos are based in York where they will play Cook Islands in their World Cup opener on November 2.
