Wallaroos centre Cecilia Smith will retire from international rugby following Friday night’s WXV Global Series clash against Scotland at GIO Stadium in Canberra.
Smith will join Emily Chancellor in playing one final Test match in the nation’s capital after telling teammates the upcoming international will be her last in gold on Wednesday.
Samoa-born Smith grew up in Leeton, NSW and started playing rugby at the age of 22 for the Leeton Dianas.
The 32-year-old made her Test debut against New Zealand in Tauranga in 2022 before being selected for her first Rugby World Cup.
Smith is a mother to her young daughter, Ruby, who inspired her to play the game throughout her career.
Smith was part of the Wallaroos' triumph WXV 2 campaign in 2024, scoring a try against Scotland in the final.
In 2025, Smith was selected to travel for her second World Cup and produced a player of the match performance against her native Samoa in the tournament opener.
Smith remains open to continuing her club career in Swytx Super Rugby Women's next season as part of her decision.
Retiring Wallaroos centre Cecilia Smith said: “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.
“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.”
Director of Women’s High Performance Tim Walsh said: “Cecilia has been a consistent player throughout her career for the Wallaroos.
“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.”
Smith was named to start at inside centre for a final time on Wednesday.
Cecilia Smith
- DOB: 13/3/1994
- Caps: 34*
- Club: Leeton Dianas
- Test Debut: Australia v New Zealand, Tauranga (2022)
- Tries: 4
- Goals: 4
- Pens: 1
- Points: 31
- World Cups: 2 (2021 and 2025)
*34 caps includes Friday’s Test
