Forced break refreshes weary Taufa

Sydney Roosters captain Simaima Taufa has lost count of the number of times she's been listed as in doubt leading into a big match over the past two seasons.

The 26-year-old has played through the pain barrier during her career to become one of the toughest forwards in the women's game. 

However, the recent COVID-19 pandemic break, which temporarily cast doubt over the 2020 women's calendar, has allowed Taufa to refresh her body and mind for the first time in a decade.

Taufa soldiered on to be one of the best on ground in the Jillaroos' only Test in 2018 despite medial ligament damage in her knee that should've kept her sidelined, while months earlier she struggled with a hip complaint but took her place in Origin. 

More recently she overcame an ankle sprain leading into the Test against the Kiwi Ferns last October.

"I debuted with the Jillaroos in 2014 but I was going between league and union for several years before then so from about 2012 it's been non-stop," Taufa told NRL.com.

"Since the NRLW began I've battled with knee and syndesmosis injuries and ligament damage on both hands during those seasons.

"I would do everything to heal injuries just in time for a major game.

"I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Physically and mentally this period has allowed me to feel refreshed and give my body time to heal."

I would do everything to heal injuries just in time for a major game

NRLW star Simaima Taufa

Taufa's club side Mounties, who were 2019 grand finalists in the NSW Harvey Norman women's premiership, won't be there when the competition resumes in July due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead of looking for a club in the lead-up to the third season of the NRLW, which will kick off this year in September, Taufa is likely to allow her body further time to recuperate.

Fears in April that Taufa's NRLW club was expected to withdraw from the competition were put to bed earlier this month with confirmation the Roosters would return in 2020. 

"The last thing I was worried about at that stage was stuff out of my control," Taufa said.

"But to now see the amount of support we've got in these times is something the girls speak highly of and we're constantly making sure we work hard to leave a good product out there in return."

Taufa acknowledges that the role of a forward in the women's game has changed since the 2017 World Cup. 

The Jillaroos' engine room has had plenty of turnover in recent years with Taufa, Millie Boyle, Chelsea Lenarduzzi the only recognised props in the current squad.

"I'm one to know there's always room to add more to my game," Taufa said.

"I've reflected on the style of footy I play. The game continues to evolve and there are a lot more opportunities and pathways accessible for younger girls."