Taking on two siblings and a sister-in-law will be tough enough for Kiwi-born Brisbane star Rona Peters in Friday’s NRL Women’s Premiership crunch clash with New Zealand’s Warriors.
But it won’t be as hard as what comes afterwards – telling her passionate Kiwi parents that she will pledge her allegiance to Australia.
Former Kiwi Ferns veteran Peters admitted to mixed feelings before lining up against sisters Hilda and Kahurangi as well as sister-in-law Laura Mariu at AAMI Park.
Warriors playmaker Mariu married Hilda earlier this year.
Another victory will guarantee Brisbane, the only undefeated team, a spot in next week’s inaugural NRLW grand final – and knock her siblings’ Warriors out of the title race.
“It’s the first time I have played my sisters on such a big stage,” said Peters.
“But what happens on the field, stays on the field. That’s how I have to look at it.
“Besides I think my parents are secret Broncos fans.”
Peters admitted she may not be as popular with her parents after she tells them her Test plans.
After representing the Kiwi Ferns over 12 years, Peters relocated to Queensland in 2015 and when signatures were called for the inaugural NRLW she pledged her allegiance to Brisbane and the Maroons.
Now the Broncos lock hopes to run out for the Jillaroos in their October 13 Test against her ex-team New Zealand in Auckland.
“It’s a hard question but I will probably stay with the Jillaroos as much as I love my family,” Peters said.
Asked how that will go down when she tells her parents, Peters said: “Probably not how I want it but my family are proud footy people so they will be happy with whatever jersey I wear.”