The Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies Super Rugby Women's Head Coach Andy Friend has unveiled his first side for 2025, ahead of their first Trial match against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane on Saturday.
Naming a 24-player squad, Friend has opted to give his Wallaroos contingent a chance to strap on their boots, with all his Australian representative stars in the starting lineup.
Additionally, several new signings will get their first opportunity to take the field in Brumbies colours this year in Easter Savelio, Merania Paraone, Ella Hopper, Hannah Stewart and Manua Moleka.
Coach Friend says the Trial against the Reds is something his side is very eager for, as they continue a strong lead-in period until the start of the 2025 Super Rugby Women's season.
"The first thing I am looking for from the trial is to see the side nailing our basic principles," said Friend.
"We saw a bit of that during our opposed session against Hong Kong last week but this Saturday will take it to a whole new level of physicality while we try and perfect the basics. The second thing I always look for from trials is the attitude of the side, both individually and as a collective."
"All our Wallaroos girls have earned the right to be at that international level and they will be there this weekend to set that standard and lay the platform for the rest of the side."
Among the group of Wallaroos is captain Siokapesi Palu who Friend has been very pleased with following her appointment to be the club captain in 2025 following a team election.
"A lot of the girls have been extremely impressive, but a special shoutout goes to Siokapesi Palu. I didn't pick the captain this year, but the team elected her which is very powerful. I present an image to the side of the 'ultimate Brumby' and right now that is Siokapesi Palu."
Donning a Brumbies jersey for the first time since 2022 will be Ella Ryan, after stints with the NSW Waratahs and the Canberra Raiders in NRLW. Earning high praise from her coach throughout the pre-season, Friend says Ryan will be one to watch in Brisbane.
"I have been really impressed with Ella from my first meeting with her when she was interested in returning to the Brumbies. Her growth and development has been remarkable and she offers and great skillset that will complement the side very well this weekend," said Friend.
Trial Match - Saturday 8th February (11AM AEST)
Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies v Queensland Reds
Ballymore Stadium, QLD
Starting XV
- Lydia Kavoa
- Katalina Amosa
- Sally Fuesaina
- Ash Fernandez
- Easter Savelio
- Siokapesi Palu (c)
- Chioma Enyi
- Tabua Tuinakauvadra
- Ella Ryan
- Faitala Moleka
- Charlie Brigstocke
- Merania Paraone
- Harmony Ioane
- Biola Dawa
- Ashley Bishop
Finishers
16. Martha Fua
17. Ella Hopper
18. Hannah Stewart
19. Jess Grant
20. Ana-Lise Sio
21. Lily Bone
22. Bonnie Brewer
23. Manua Moleka
24. Gabby Petersen
