The ACT Brumbies are stepping back into the ring, lacing up for a showdown with the Fijian Drua Women in the heart of Fiji.
After landing their first blow of the season against the Queensland Reds and pushing defending champions the NSW Waratahs to the final bell last weekend, the Brumbies now face perhaps their toughest challenge yet.
Saturday's Round 3 clash at Four R Stadium in Ba shapes as a genuine heavyweight contest, with the Drua renowned for their explosive attack, relentless physicality and passionate home support.
For the Brumbies, it's another opportunity to prove they not only punch above their weight but they belong among the competition's contenders.
Watch every second of the 2026 Super Rugby Women's season live and on demand via Stan Sport.
Head Coach James Erwin has made two changes to the starting side for the trip across the Pacific.
Fly-half Faitala Moleka has been ruled out after sustaining an eye contusion during last week's battle against the Waratahs. Moleka will remain in Canberra for further assessment, opening the door for Ella Ryan to step back into the No.10 jersey after lining up at fullback in Round 2.
Ryan's shift creates an opportunity for Makenna Ravouvou to return to the matchday 23, with the versatile back named on the bench.
The other change sees teenage sensation Georgie Hayes handed her first start in Brumbies colours.
The 17-year-old announced herself on the Super Rugby Women stage with an impressive debut off the bench against the Waratahs and will now wear the No.15 jersey from the opening whistle. One of the youngest players ever to represent the club, Hayes continues her rapid rise in what is shaping as a promising Brumbies career.
There could also be a memorable moment waiting on the bench.
Nineteen-year-old Savannah Roberts-Hickling has been named in a Brumbies matchday squad for the first time and is in line to make her Super Rugby Women debut.
A proud Bundjalung and Gomeroi woman, Roberts-Hickling would become the first graduate of the Brumbies Indigenous Pathways Program to play Super Rugby Women should she take the field in Fiji.
The Brumbies' forward pack remains unchanged following last week's strong showing against the Waratahs, with front-row trio Martha Fua, Tania Naden and Wako Kitano set to lay the platform up front. Locks Ash Fernandez and Jess Grant continue their partnership in the second row, while Lily Bone and Captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona combine on the flanks alongside Wallaroo No.8 Tabua Tuinakauvadra, who continues to build momentum following her return from injury.
In the backs, Anne Fernandez De Corres continues her very strong start to the season, combining with Ryan to steer the side around the park in the halves. Out wide, Ivania Wong, Merania Paraone, Bonnie Brewer and Ash Bishop provide plenty of zip, grit and flair. The wonderkid Hayes lines up at fullback after an eye-catching debut from the bench last weekend.
The Brumbies also boast plenty of impact among the reserves. Millie Parker, Mona Lisa Tupou and Linda Emelio provide front-row reinforcement, while Grace Sullivan and Rayna Ellis offer versatility and energy through the forwards. Ravouvou returns to the matchday squad and will add spark to the backline, alongside Roberts-Hickling and utility back Paua Lee Going, giving the Brumbies a strong finishers group for the challenge that awaits in Fiji.
Now comes the next test. A hostile away trip, a dangerous opponent, and a chance to make a statement.
The bell rings at 12:05pm AEST on Saturday. Watch live and on demand via Stan Sport.
The Brumbies are ready for the next round.
