Squad for Women's Rugby World Cup in Australia announced
The Australian Women's Rugby Sevens team, also known as the Wallaroos, has unveiled its squad for the upcoming tournament in England. The squad, led by coach Jo Yapp, boasts a diverse mix of culture, ages, and experience in the game.
The tournament will take place in England, with the Wallaroos set to face off against several formidable opponents. Notably, England and the United States will play the tournament's opening fixture in the same pool on August 22. Australia's first match is scheduled against Samoa in Salford on August 23.
The squad consists of 16 forwards and 12 backs, including Sevens star Charlotte Caslick, who is nursing an ankle injury but has been included in the team. Caslick, an Olympic Sevens gold medalist, brings her exceptional skills and experience to the team.
Joining Caslick is Caitlin Urwin, the only uncapped player in the squad. Urwin's inclusion adds a fresh perspective to the team, alongside experienced players like Siokapesi Palu, Briana Hoy, and Annabelle Codey.
The tournament also sees the debut of teenagers Caitlyn Halse and Waiaria Ellis, promising additions to the squad.
The Wallaroos faced a disappointing quarter-final exit at the hands of England in the 2021 World Cup. With this in mind, the team will be eager to turn the tables and secure a victory in their upcoming match against England, scheduled for August 30 in York.
The full squad for the tournament is as follows:
Forwards: - Katalina Amosa - Bree-Anna Browne - Annabelle Codey - Emily Chancellor - Piper Duck - Ashley Fernandez - Brianna Hoy - Asoiva Karpani - Lydia Kavoa - Kaitlan Leaney - Michaela Leonard - Ashley Marsters - Tania Naden - Bridie O'Gorman - Siokapesi Palu - Faliki Pohiva - Adiana Talakai - Tabua Tuinakauvadra
Backs: - Lori Cramer - Waiaria Ellis - Georgina Friedrichs - Caitlyn Halse - Tia Hinds - Desiree Miller - Faitala Moleka - Layne Morgan - Trilleen Pomare - Cecilia Smith - Maya Stewart - Caitlin Urwin - Samantha Wood
As the Wallaroos prepare for the tournament, they will be aiming to make a strong showing and secure a place in the latter stages of the competition. The team's determination and skill will undoubtedly make for an exciting tournament in England.
The Wallaroos will be showcasing their diverse cultural background while competing on the sports field, as the squad features players from various backgrounds. In addition to their cultural exchange, the team will employ skilled players like Charlotte Caslick and Caitlin Urwin, who bring experience from the sports of rugby and football, respectively.
