Bremner ruled out for Jillaroos as injury curse continues
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Newly appointed Australian Jillaroos skipper Sam Bremner has been ruled out of Saturday's clash with the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns after failing to overcome a toe injury.
The luckless fullback fractured her toe in September during the NRL Holden Women's Premiership and missed the Dragons' final two clashes.
Jillaroos coach Brad Donald has recalled Karina Brown to the squad following Bremner's withdrawal.
"We've got plenty of experienced players in the squad, with many of the team having played the Kiwis on multiple occasions, including Karina," Donald said.
"It's unfortunate to be losing our captain for such a big match, but I know Sam will be cheering the team on and we look forward to welcoming her back from injury as soon as possible."
Bremner has not played for Australia since the Nines tournament in 2017 after a terrible run of luck with injuries.
She missed the Trans-Tasman Test match last year after suffering concussion during the side's final training session, before a stress fracture ruled her out of the Rugby League World Cup in November and Commonwealth Nines tournament a month later.
Donald named Bremner as captain of the Jillaroos for the first time in her career just last week, emphasising a vision for the Dragons fullback to take the side into the next era of women's rugby league in Australia.
"If we look at the long-term goal it's to retain the World Cup in another three years' time," Donald said at the squad announcement prior to Bremner's withdrawal.
"Sammy Bremner fits the bill there for the next four years. What she does on and off the field, she's a great leader. She runs a business and is great amongst the team."
Bremner's replacement Brown returns to the fold after a solid NRLW campaign for the Roosters and coming back from a broken jaw.
Donald has options for the fullback spot with Chelsea Baker also in line for the No.1 jersey after strong performances for the premiership-winning Broncos.
A replacement captain for the clash is expected to be named later in the week.
