Wallaroos skipper Grace Hamilton believes the cohesion gained from her squad’s two-Test series against Japan has given the Aussie women’s team their “best ever” preparation for a showdown with New Zealand.
The Wallaroos have never beaten the Black Ferns in 15 Test matches but are more buoyant than ever after claiming their first two wins on home soil over a courageous Japan last month.
Bravery aside, the Japanese women are not in the same league as the Black Ferns however, with the dominant Kiwis ranked no.1 and the current world champions.
They dispatched the Wallaroos in two clashes last year to retain the Laurie O'Reilly Memorial Trophy, but this year Australia has had the benefit of playing a lead-in Test series, prior to their annual grudge matches with the Black Ferns.
Along with the boost of a second season of high-level completion in the Super W, the Wallaroos feel better prepared than ever heading into their opening game with New Zealand this year, which will be played as a double-header with the men’s in Perth.
Asked if the Japan series had been beneficial for the Wallaroos leading into the Black Ferns’ games, Hamilton said: “Definitely, for us, now having that cohesion in our group.”
“Having that time together, we work each other out and learn how to play together and moving into this Test match it is so important for us to keep building and keep improving,” Hamilton continued.
"They’ve been dominant, it’s in their blood, but they’ve always had that cohesion and they spend a lot of time together.
"We’ve now had that opportunity so for us, this is the best ever preparation we have had and I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday.”
A maiden win over New Zealand would mean “everything”, said Hamilton.
“It’s great for our game but it’s also about belief. I think we have built that belief now and you put yourself in difficult situations to build that belief and to challenge yourself,” she said.
"I can’t wait to get out there because I believe in these girls."
“It’s the first time we have played in Perth, for us to be here is really exciting. To be here and part of the Wallabies environment is amazing for us.
"It’s a great rugby community here. Everyone is involved and everyone wants to be involved in rugby. For us to be out here is really exciting and to be over the other side of Australia."
The Wallabies take on New Zealand at Optus Stadium, Perth, on Saturday August 10, kicking off at 5;45pm local, 7;45pm AEST, with the Wallaroos-Black Ferns kicking off at 3pm local, 5pm AEST. The Wallabies are LIVE on Network Ten, FOX SPORTS, Kayo Sports and RUGBY.com.au RADIO while the Wallaroos will be shown on FOX SPORTS, Kayo Sports and via RUGBY.com.au RADIO.
