The One New Zealand Warriors are turning to the versatility of Emmanita Paki as the club navigates an early-season injury toll in the NRLW, with the talented back proving she can fill multiple roles across the backline and in the halves.
After injuries sidelined several key players, including experienced playmaker Gayle Broughton, Paki has seamlessly shifted from her usual centre position into five-eighth, helping the Warriors remain competitive during the opening rounds of the 2026 season.
The move highlights the value of the 23-year-old Queensland representative, who joined the Warriors ahead of the 2025 season after winning premierships with the Newcastle Knights under current Warriors coach Ronald Griffiths. Having previously overcome a serious ACL injury, Paki has quickly established herself as one of the club’s most dependable players.
The Warriors have had to reshuffle their line-up after a string of injuries affected key personnel during the opening weeks of the competition. Despite those disruptions, the side responded with an impressive 42-4 victory over the North Queensland Cowboys before preparing for a clash against the Parramatta Eels with several frontline players nearing a return.
Paki’s transition into the playmaking role has been aided by her strong football intelligence and ability to read the game, giving the Warriors confidence despite the absence of specialist halves. Her combination with halfback Patricia Maliepo has allowed the side to maintain structure while continuing to pose an attacking threat.
The injury situation is beginning to improve, with Broughton named on an extended bench after recovering from a quad injury, while winger Payton Takimoana and loose forward Kaiyah Atai have also returned to selection. The Warriors have been able to name a full squad for the first time this season as they look to build momentum through the middle rounds of the competition.
Paki’s willingness to adapt wherever required has reinforced the depth being built within the Warriors programme, with the club continuing to establish itself as one of the NRLW’s emerging contenders after returning to the competition last season.
As the season progresses, that flexibility could prove invaluable as the Warriors chase a place in the finals and look to cement themselves among the competition’s leading clubs.
#Tags:
#TeKaupapa #RadioWaatea #Warriors #NRLW #EmmanitaPaki #WahineToa #RugbyLeague #Hākinakina #Aotearoa #WomenInSport
