Emotional Rollercoaster: Pregnant NSW Star Shares Bittersweet Origin Update as Top Teammate Makes Comeback Months Post-Birth

As New South Wales star Emma Verran prepares for the commencement of the Women’s State of Origin series this Thursday night, she finds herself among an increasing number of Australian rugby league players balancing the demands of professional sport with motherhood.

With her teammate Millie Elliott set to make a comeback just eight months after welcoming her daughter Gigi, Verran acknowledges that the 27-year-old is leading the charge for mothers in the league.

“I’m expecting this season, which means I won’t be on the field,” Verran shared with Nine’s Today.

“At the moment, it’s a bit tough watching all the girls’ updates; it’s quite overwhelming. But it’s an exciting time of year.”

“Origin is unmatched in its intensity, and with only one game happening in New South Wales, I know the ladies will be fired up for the encounter tomorrow in Newcastle.”

Elliott’s return exemplifies resilience, showcasing the evolving pregnancy policies within NRLW aimed at supporting players as they navigate family life alongside their careers.

“Millie is a true inspiration, particularly for athletes like me who are currently transitioning into motherhood,” noted Verran.

“It’s fantastic to see her back in action; stepping onto such a prestigious stage right away is remarkable, demonstrating that our pregnancy policy is effective and that the game is in capable hands.”

“I hope it inspires other women and shows that we can balance motherhood and high-level sport.”

Catch the 2026 Women’s State of Origin series live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Elliott explained that her journey back to the Sky Blues jersey extended beyond just regaining physical fitness. Speaking candidly about her return, she acknowledged the extensive effort required after her September pregnancy.

“I understood the challenges ahead,” Elliott said.

“It’s certainly no walk in the park, that’s for sure.”

“There’s a lot of prehabilitation, exercises, rehabilitation, and physiotherapy required, and I’ve been fortunate enough to access that support, enabling me to regain my fitness and confidence,” she explained.

Elliott also pointed out the unique pressures faced by NRLW players who frequently juggle sport alongside other careers.

“As part-time athletes, particularly for us rugby league players, managing numerous responsibilities outside of the field is vital,” she elaborated.

“Being a competitive athlete requires a certain level of selfishness, often demanding time away from family through training sessions, late nights, physiotherapy, and rehab. There’s so much involved in that.”

When Elliott steps onto the field in Newcastle for the first game of NSW’s Origin title defence—following a thrilling series win in 2025—she’ll have a very special supporter in the crowd.

“[The Blues] haven’t achieved a win in Newcastle yet, and my little Gigi will be there to cheer me on,” she added.

Verran also suggested that Sydney Roosters star Teagan Berry could be a standout player for the team when discussing the squad on Nine’s Today.

The 24-year-old, who once contemplated stepping back from the sport, is now ready for her Origin debut.

“Teagan has that special spark; of course, she’ll feel nervous—it’s a huge occasion,” Verran remarked.

“With the best support in camp, they’ll look after her and ensure she’s comfortable and primed to shine. I’m sure we’ll see her brilliance when she hits the field.”

As the Blues aim to defend their 2025 title, coach John Strange acknowledged to the media that his ambitions include achieving a historic clean sweep.

“That’s certainly a goal shared by everyone, as it would be for any Queensland player,” stated Strange.

“The focus must remain on the immediate tasks ahead—ensuring we approach every training session with purpose and precision.”

“Everyone wants that clean sweep, for sure.”

Yet, they face a formidable Queensland Maroons side under new leadership from a solo captain.

“We definitely have some players on the Maroons side to watch closely, like Tamika Upton, who has just been named their captain; she’s phenomenal,” Verran explained.

“They possess a wealth of talent across the board. The Maroons are consistently a formidable team, and in Origin matches, anything can happen.”

“However, I’m confident that the Blues girls will secure the win.”

The opening match of the State of Origin series will take place in Newcastle this Thursday night. Be sure to catch the live coverage on Nine and 9Now from 7:30pm (AEST).