Cecilia Smith set to retire from Wallaroos after Canberra Test

Wed, Oct 21, 2026, 6:00 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

Wallaroos centre Cecilia Smith has announced she will retire from international rugby following Friday's Tests against Scotland in Canberra.

Smith will start at inside centre, making the announcement to teammates during the week.

Watch every second of the Wallaroos Test against Scotland live and on demand via Stan Sport.

The 32-year-old debuted for Australia against New Zealand in 2022, selected for the World Cup later that year.

Smith featured at her second World Cup last year, named player of the match in a thumping win over Samoa.

“I’m just a country girl from Leeton who decided to give footy a crack after having my little girl, and somehow, I ended up here, representing Australia," Smith said in a statement. “I’ve been a part of this team for a long time now, and rugby has given me so much more than I ever expected but I’m excited for the next chapter now.

“I’ve had the privilege of representing my country, playing in two World Cups, travelling the world, making lifelong friendships, and sharing special memories with amazing women.

“We’ve shared some incredible moments, and those are the things I’ll remember and cherish the most. I’m proud of my journey, proud of the memories I’ve made, and proud to be a Wallaroo."

Smith will end her career on 34 Tests, scoring four times for her country, but is open to continuing playing Super Rugby Women's.

Teammates paid tribute to Smith during the week, with the centre set to call time alongside flanker Emily Chancellor.

"'Cee' hanging up the boots was quite emotional. I have a lot of respect for her to be so brave like 'Chance' and announce her decision in front of the group," prop Eva Karpani said.

"She's been great to this game and especially as a Pacific Islander myself, and having her here, she's also been really, really inspiring for that Pacific Islander culture."

“Cecilia has been a consistent player throughout her career for the Wallaroos," Director of Women's High Performance Tim Walsh added.

“She is quiet and humble but brings a great presence to the team that won’t be easily replaced.

“Her love for her teammates, her family and the game is inspiring and she has left the jersey in a better place.”

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Cecilia Smith to retire following Wallaroos Test match in Canberra
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