The fire in Sariah: Cross code star has Roosters crowing

The NRLW's reputation as a premier destination for cross-code athletes continues to be enhanced and Rooster Sariah Paki is at the forefront of the revolution.

After growing up playing touch footy on Sydney's northern beaches, Paki made her Sevens debut for Australia at just 17 years of age, going on to represent her country at the Tokyo Olympics and then claiming gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in England.

The dominant second-rower made the switch to rugby league at the start of the 2026 season and has already got her prints all over the game.

With five tries in eight games, the back-rower continues to impress and was a big factor in helping her Roosters stay undefeated with a 66-8 win over the Warriors, a side that includes Kiwi Ferns legend Stacey Waaka.

“I can see big growth this year, a lot of us rugby players coming over; it's definitely building the game, and it's only going to get better and better each year,” said Paki.

For many athletes, the NRLW provides a more professional environment in which they are able to thrive. 

“I think that the NRLW is the sport that is really taking off," said Roosters captain Isabelle Kelly.

“Having these athletes come play is only making our game better."

With the minimum wage for NRLW players increasing to $50,000 in 2027, this trend of players coming across will most likely continue as the NRLW reinforces its status as the premier women’s sporting code in Australia.

"I think it's a breath of fresh air for them; it's great to see players of that calibre coming over to rugby league," said Warriors captain Kaiya Atai.

"It definitely makes the game more exciting."

In what has already been an incredible season for the Roosters, they will look to make it nine on the bounce when they host the Sharks at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

The two-time premiers have a third crown well and truly in their sights and for Paki that would put the cherry on top of a stunning debut season.