The defending Cup champions – who will be based in Wollongong for the pool matches – kicked off their tournament against Cook Islands on Thursday as part of a triple-header at Southern Cross Group Stadium.

They’ll then take on England in their second match at the same venue on Sunday ahead of their third pool encounter against Canada on Wednesday.

They’ll also need to back up four days later for the semi-finals with the final to be held in Brisbane on December 2.

The demanding schedule was clearly a consideration for coach Brad Donald, with a number of big names left off the team list for the tournament opener.

Star fullback and Sam Bremner and captain Ruan Sims were left out of the squad while Bega’s star export Kezie Apps and her Helensburgh team-mate Maddie Studdon were named on an extended bench.

However, Apps was named at number 12 in the final team draw released by the Jillaroos late on Wednesday. 

Team officials said Apps was likely to get a good resting during Thursday’s match with Donald hoping to save the legs of some of his star players for the heavy draw. 

Hancock said it’s a luxury to be able to draw on such a rich talent pool.

“Obviously with the niggling injuries you pick up, fatigue, three-day turnarounds, it’s going to be very helpful to have the number quality players we have in the squad,” Hancock said.

“We’re not taking any game lightly by any means but it’s good we have some debutants having a run and obviously, in a World Cup, everyone’s fighting for a spot. 

“It’s great we have that much depth and potential and, with the schedule the way it is, hopefully we come through these games well and can back it up for the semis.”

Illawarra pair Bremner and Apps have both been in doubt for the tournament at different stages over the last 12 months. 

Apps underwent surgery on a broken leg less than 12 months ago while Bremner picked up an ankle injury in NSW’s Interstate Challenge victory over Queensland in June.

Hancock said having both on deck is a huge boost to the Jillaroos chances of retaining the crown they won in 2013. 

TV coverage of the games can be found on Seven, who will also be live-streaming the matches.