Brumbies head coach Dan Hawke made four changes to his starting side to take on the Melbourne Rebels in round two of Buildcorp Super W at AAMI Park.
Hooker Tania Naden will make her first starting appearance for the Brumbies having been part of the group in the inaugural Super W season in 2018.
ACT rugby legend Shellie Milward was the Brumbies first Super W captain, and caps a remarkable return to action in the starting side this week, having come off the bench in round one.
Grace Kemp reverts to the backrow with Georgia O’Neill at openside and Rebecca Smyth leading the side from number eight.
Teliya Hetaraka takes the flyhalf reigns with Ash Hewson ruled out, the youngster partnering Jay Huriwai in the halves.
The centre combination remains unchanged with Siokapesi Palu at inside centre and Japanese international Mana Furuta wearing 13.
Melbourne-born speedster Halley Derera will make her first appearance in 2022 on the left wing after an impressive debut season last year. That switch sees Lillyann Mason-Spice move to fullback with Jemima McCalman on the right wing once again after scoring a double in round one.
Harriet Elleman will be the finishing hooker, with Japanese international Makoto Lavemai set to make her debut alongside Niki Paterson as the prop impact.
Tabua Tuinakauvadra is one to watch off the bench on debut, with Talei Qalo Wilson covering the backrow.
Pathways product Gisela Vea will make her debut as the halfback finisher, with Wagga Wagga finisher Biola Dawa set to return to Brumbies colours in the outside backs.
Brumbies head coach, Dan Hawke said: “I’ve been really pleased with the attitude and intent we’ve seen in the group since the final whistle on Saturday.”
“We weren’t happy with the result or the performance and we’ve worked hard to rectify that this week.
“Really excited to see Tania get a start and for those making their debuts in the finishers.
“We’re fortunate to have had a look at the Rebels in a trial game and we know we’re in for a massive battle on Friday night.”
