Shaylee hell-Bent on making her mark in World Cup

Making her Jillaroos debut at the Rugby League World Cup was always in Shaylee Bent’s sights this year but after a long day without a call from coach Brad Donald, the St George Illawarra star was losing hope of ending her breakout year in the green and gold.

When Millie Boyle withdrew from the team, however, the Jillaroos came calling.

And after being handed a second chance at an international debut, the Penrith-born forward said she’s ready to prove herself on the world stage.

“The squad got announced on the Monday and I found out I didn’t make it so that was really disappointing,” Bent told NRL.com.

“I was at the Koori Knockout so I went home but woke up the next day and I got a call from Brad.

“I wasn’t going to answer it at first because I was a bit nervous and thought he was just calling to tell me why I didn’t make the team.

“But then he explained one of the girls had dropped out and I was next in line and asked if I was available to come to England. So I said of course I was.

“The goal was always to get here so I’m just thankful that I’m here and I’m here now and I’m going to take every opportunity while I can to try and show them what I’ve got.”

With the competition kicking off on November 3, the 22-year-old is not only set to feature for the Jillaroos for the first time but also experience her first proper trip abroad, outside of playing a game or two in New Zealand.

“I’ve never really been overseas. I’ve only been to New Zealand for like two days so travelling that far will be a really new experience for me,” she said.

“I’m glad I’m doing it with the whole team. It’s crazy to think that this time in a week I’ll be putting on the green and gold jersey.”

Training on the Gold Coast before heading to England, Bent said seeing young fans around to send off the Jillaroos gave her a newfound perspective ahead of her debut in the green and gold.

“It was so exciting seeing all the little boys and girls that came to our open session, so thank you to the parents for bringing them out,” Bent said.

This is what we do it for, to be idols for the next generation.

Jillaroos forward Shaylee Bent

“Bec Young: I played with her in her last All Stars game so to play alongside her in her last game and follow in her footsteps in the jillaroo jersey.

“So I hope to be that person for someone else one day.”

The Jillaroos departed for England on Monday in preparation for their opening pool match against Cook Islands on Thursday, November 3.