The ACT Brumbies Women have named their squad to take on the Queensland Reds this Sunday, 7 June, with kick-off scheduled for 1.05 pm AEST at Ballymore Stadium.
Siokapesi Palu Sekona takes the helm as captain, leading a side determined to take the fight to the Reds on their home turf. The matchday squad features a formidable mix of established Wallaroos talent and an injection of fresh energy.
Japanese international Wako Kitano has been named in the starting side for her competition debut. Kitano has thoroughly impressed the coaching staff, earning her selection after arriving at the club just over a fortnight ago.
"Wako has integrated seamlessly into our environment despite her recent arrival," noted Head Coach James Erwin.
"She’s showcased a real physicality with ball in hand and brings a strong defensive presence. We know she is going to enjoy competing against the quality of the Reds pack”
The starting line-up also features the inclusion of former Reds outside back, Ivania Wong. Having successfully acclimatised to the capital, Wong remains a highly elusive scoring threat, having crossed the try line in all three of the Brumbies' pre-season trial matches.
"Ivania offers far more than just dynamic attacking opportunity," Erwin added.
"She has been a physical presence defensively, and her experience has been invaluable to elevating the standards of the players around her."
The ACT Brumbies enter the season opener on the back of a rigorous three-game pre-season block, a critical period that has allowed the coaching staff to refine positional changes and solidify on-field combinations.
"Securing three consecutive fixtures during our pre-season has been crucial for our preparation," Erwin said.
"We have introduced a wealth of new talent that we believe will provide a genuine point of difference. These recent trials have allowed us to effectively build chemistry within the group and trust in how we are trying to play.”
"The season starts now, and the group is excited about what's to come on Sunday."
- Martha Fua
- Tania Naden
- Wako Kitano - Competition Debut
- Ash Fernandez
- Jess Grant
- Lily Bone
- Rayna Ellis - Competition Debut
- Siokapesi Palu Sekona (c)
- Anne Fernandez De Corres - Competition Debut
- Ella Ryan
- Ivania Wong - Club Debut
- Merania Paraone
- Bonnie Brewer
- Ash Bishop
- Faitala Moleka
Finishers:
16. Millie Parker - Potential Club Debut
17. Linda Emelio - Potential Competition Debut
18. Jane Morrison - Potential Competition Debut
19. Easter Savelio
20. Tabua Tuinakauvadra
21. Georgie Hayes - Potential Competition Debut
22. Makenna Ravouvou - Potential Competition Debut
23. Paua Lee Going - Potential Competition Debut
