The ACT Brumbies Swyftx Super Rugby Women have named a near full-strength side to face the NSW Waratahs in their final pre-season trial this Saturday afternoon at GIO Stadium, Canberra.
In what promises to be a special occasion both on and off the field, the clash will serve as a celebration of culture, connection and rugby, with the Brumbies proudly wearing the club’s Indigenous jersey in recognition of National Reconciliation Week.
The fixture marks the first time the Brumbies Super W side will wear a commemorative Indigenous jersey — a significant moment for the program and an opportunity to honour First Nations culture on one of the club’s biggest stages of the year.
Kicking off at 12:05PM as part of a blockbuster double-header featuring the ACT Brumbies men’s final regular season fixture against Moana Pasifika later in the day, Saturday is shaping as a celebration in every sense — afternoon footy, fierce rivalry, community, culture and some seriously good rugby.
Head Coach James Erwin has named a side stacked with international experience and firepower for the final hit-out before the 2026 season begins.
Wallaroos representatives Siokapesi Palu Sekona, Tania Naden, Ash Fernandez, Lily Bone, Faitala Moleka and Ella Ryan headline the side in a clear statement of intent from the Brumbies. The squad is further strengthened by international talent including Fijian prop Iris Verebalavu, Spanish scrum-half Anne Fernandez de Corres and Japanese international prop Wako Kitano.
Captain Palu Sekona will lead a side eager to build momentum and lay down a marker against their long-time rivals from up the Hume, in what shapes as a fitting showcase of the growth, quality and excitement surrounding women’s rugby in the capital.
The Brumbies pack will be out to set the tone from the opening whistle. Naden and Kitano combine with Linda Emelio in the front row, while Fernandez partners Jess Grant in the row. Behind them, the trio of Bone, Rayna Ellis and Palu Sekona will muscle up and get to work at the breakdown.
Fernandez de Corres steers the side from scrum-half and links with Ryan in the halves, forming a dynamic, front –foot playmaking combination. Out wide, there is genuine strike power with Wallaroos fullback Moleka joined by Ivania Wong and Ash Bishop in the back three, while Merania Paraone and Bonnie Brewer provide creativity and steel in the midfield.
The extended bench offers impressive depth across the park. Former Waratah Millie Parker, Jane Morrison and Tenniah Papa provide front-row cover, while Grace Sullivan and Easter Savelio add versatility and impact to the forward reserves. Tessa Good, Georgie Hayes, Makenna Ravouvou, Sonrae Lui and Savannah Roberts-Hickling give the coaching staff plenty of enticing options to unleash in the back half of the game.
With culture at the heart of the occasion and two proud rivals going head-to-head, Saturday’s clash promises to be far more than just a trial match.
After all, is it ever just a trial when the Brumbies play the Waratahs?
A huge afternoon of rugby awaits at GIO Stadium, get your tickets today!
Don't miss a moment of the journey in 2026 — secure your ACT Brumbies Swyftx Super Rugby Women membership today.
