Brigginshaw captained the Broncos to an inaugural NRLW grand final win and was honoured to receive the captaincy.

"I'm really honored and the girls have been really supportive of me," she said.

"Sammy [Bremner] is there which is disappointing but I'm going to go out there and lead by example like she would," Brigginshaw said.

The 29-year-old was pulled her aside as her and coach Brad Donald were coming out of the lift but she didn't know what it was going to be about.

Donald said she was ready for the role, having carved out a significant leadership role amongst the Jillaroos over the past few seasons in particular.

"Ali is a talented leader on and off the field, with clear instructions and a natural feel for the game," he said.

"Whilst we're sad that Sam isn't able to take her position captaining the team, Ali will do a fantastic job on Saturday, surrounded by plenty of experience and a mix of debutants."

"It was humbling for him to see how much hard work I've put in," Brigginshaw said.

The Jillaroos take on the Kiwi Ferns on Saturday 13 October at Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland.

Live on Fox League and GEM from 3pm AEDT.