Boyle ready to be a part of history

Harvey Norman NSW Sky Blues front-rower Millie Boyle says the large crowd expected for Game Two in Townsville is testament to the continuing growth and popularity of women’s Rugby League.

With Game One attracting just under 13,000 fans to CommBank Stadium on 1 June for a new women’s Origin record, that mark is set to be lifted again at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Thursday (22 June), where approximately 15,000 supporters are expected.

A second women’s Origin game in 2023 is already a piece of Rugby League history but now Townsville fans might add a second milestone to the night.

The game is also giving the Sky Blues a second chance to retain the Ampol Women’s State of Origin shield after Queensland won Game One 18-10.

The winner of the 2023 series will be decided on aggregate points from both matches.

But Boyle thinks the large Townsville crowd is also a reminder of the surge in the women’s game.

“Coming up here to a rugby league city, it’s great to see so many people getting involved in the women’s game and wanting to back it, and come to watch and support,” she said.

“It’s great that we can bring the game up here and we can get a really great crowd.

“It’s great to grow the game and seeing that it’s improving year on year.”

Now chasing a nine-point win in Townsville to keep the shield for another 12 months after winning the 2022 one-off game in Canberra, the Sky Blues are hoping that the series only continues to grow with the addition of a third game in the future.

“I don’t see why we can’t move to three, it’s one of the biggest games of the year,” Boyle said.

“I don’t see why a third game wouldn’t be watched, especially if it is a decider.

“It makes sense to play three, it’s a no-brainer.”