Wallaroos skipper Siokapesi Palu (foot) and star back Charlotte Caslick (ankle) have suffered injuries and will miss the two-Test series against Wales, which starts next weekend in Brisbane.
Both Caslick and Palu have undergone surgery with a view to being fit for the group stages of the Rugby World Cup, which begins on August 23 in England.
Final tickets still available! Get your tickets for the British & Irish Lions tour here
Brumbies duo Manu’a Moleka and Lily Bone, along with recent Wallaroos debutant Ruby Anderson, have been added to the squad ahead of the games against Wales in Brisbane and Sydney.
The influential pair suffered the knocks during Saturday’s defeat to New Zealand.
Palu departed in the 34th minute after saving a certain try to prop Chryss Viliko, however, was awkwardly contused over her ankle in the process.
As for Caslick, the Sevens superstar was injured in the final minutes of the game with the Wallaroos on the attack, coming off second best in a tackle.
Caslick and Palu have been two of the Wallaroos’ best in 2025, with the Olympic gold medalist impressing in her debut season in 15s.
As for Palu, the Brumbies skipper has emerged as the key leader in the Australian side, taking over the permanent captaincy in the past 12 months.
Winger Desiree Miller led the well wishes for the injured duo as they begin their recovery.
“Obviously really tough, I couldn't imagine how they're feeling. After the game they were still pretty positive but it's hard to say,” she said on Tuesday.
“Just waiting on results and I think Charlotte's heading into surgery today so hopefully a speedy recovery and we can get her back really soon. Still waiting on Pesi’s results but we're all really hopeful and positive and just sending love and all that towards her.”
“Two really big losses and it'll hurt us,” playmaker Tia Hinds added.
“It’s a team sport and we always got to look for what we can do and there's always going to be someone to fill the role and someone who can rise to the occasion and it's just another opportunity for someone else to step in.
“But very big losses and we're really backing the girls to return safe and well.”
