The ACT Brumbies Super Rugby Women have called in the cavalry for their second trial match ahead of the 2026 Swyftx Super Rugby Women’s season, naming eight internationals to face the Western Force on Saturday at Brumbies HQ, kick-off at 10:30am.
Wallaroos captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona headlines a star-studded contingent alongside Tania Naden, Ash Fernandez, Lily Bone, Faitala Moleka and Ella Ryan. The side also carries plenty of international flavour, with Fijian prop Iris Verebalavu, Spanish scrum-half Anne Fernandez de Corres and newly signed Japanese international prop Wako Kitano all set to pull on Brumbies colours.
Head Coach James Erwin has named an extended bench as he looks to test combinations and build valuable match fitness across the squad. While the Brumbies went down 52-12 to the Queensland Reds in their opening trial match last week, Erwin said there were plenty of encouraging signs from the group’s emerging talent.
“We got a lot of things right in pre-season game one. What was really pleasing was a number of those new Brumbies players had some really good efforts across the 80 minutes,” Erwin said.
“We look really good when we get things right, so there are a lot of positives building into pre-season game two. Coming out of game one, we’re confident in where we’re heading.”
Saturday’s bout with the Western Force shapes as an early glimpse into the identity of this 2026 Brumbies outfit — powerful up front, fearless with ball in hand and packed with attacking spark. Fly-half Faitala Moleka will steer the attack behind a refreshed forward pack led by Brumbies enforcers Palu Sekona and Naden, with the returning internationals expected to bring power, composure and genuine game-breaking ability across the park.
Erwin praised the impact the returning players have already had on the wider squad environment.
“They’re phenomenal footballers, but more importantly, their character and engagement with the broader squad has been outstanding,” Erwin said.
“They’ve come back in wanting to earn their place within the group, and that’s created really positive energy. It’s also given a lot of confidence to our debutants and new players.”
Saturday morning at Brumbies HQ is more than just another trial match — it’s the next step in building the 2026 campaign. Brumbies fans are encouraged to get behind the side, meet the next generation of stars and see the squad begin to find its rhythm ahead of the new season.
Be there for every moment of the Brumbies Super W season in 2026, sign up for your Super W membership today!
