Warriors women set to go

The Warriors have been confirmed as one of four teams to take part in the inaugural NRL women’s premiership later this year.

The Auckland club will be joined by the Sydney Roosters, St George-illawarra Dragons and Brisbane Broncos, the NRL announced yesterday.

Warriors executive chairman Jim Doyle says their involvement in the competition is a significant launching pad for the women’s game in New Zealand.

‘‘With the success the Kiwi Ferns have had, it’s logical to have one of the teams in New Zealand,’’ said Doyle.

While the team is a Warriors entity, club chief executive Cameron George said the the local game would be involved.

They have already held discussions with New Zealand Rugby League and Auckland Rugby League as they plan for the new competition, which will run over a four-week period alongside the NRL finals.

‘‘The next steps will include assembling a squad and coaching staff, looking at sponsorship, a name for the team and more,’’ George said.

There are two fewer teams in the premiership than what was originally proposed at the end of last year. However, NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said that decision was made to ensure an even competition in its first year.

Greenberg added that geography played a key factor when selecting the teams, which opened the door for the Warriors.