Rugby Australia has announced Australia A Women will face Samoa in a crucial pre-World Cup clash on June 28 in Canberra.
The match will serve as vital preparation for both sides ahead of a big year in Women's Rugby, held at Viking Park.
Catch Australia A Women face Samoa live on Rugby.com.au on June 28
The Wallaroos will play Manusina, Samoa's national team, in the opening match of the Rugby World Cup in Manchester on August 23 before clashes against USA and England.
It also serves as a chance for Wallaroos hopefuls to press their claims for selection ahead of Tests against New Zealand and Wales in the build-up to September's World Cup in England.
The two teams squared off in Apia, Samoa last year with a late penalty goal securing a 20-17 win to Manusina.
The fixtire is supported by the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports program.
“After a highly successful event last year, the Australia A clash with Manusina returns to the calendar ahead of a critical period for both nations ahead of the Rugby World Cup,” General Manager of Women’s Rugby, Jilly Collins said.
“Once again, this match would not be possible without the great support of the Australian government through the PacificAus Sports partnership.
“The Australia A fixture is a fantastic opportunity for players on the cusp of national selection either this year or in future years to have a taste of the international arena, while experienced players also have an opportunity to push for higher selection.
“Players like Faliki Pohiva, Martha Fua, and Ruby Anderson have all debuted for the Wallaroos under Jo Yapp this year after featuring in last year’s fixture.”
The Australia A team to play Manusina will be announced on June 26 ahead of the match, which will kick off at 11:30am AEST at Viking Park, Canberra.
An extended Wallaroos squad has assembled in Canberra to begin their first of two training blocks in June ahead of their next Test match against New Zealand in Wellington on July 12.
