Sevens sensation Charlotte Caslick is set to make her eagerly awaited Wallaroos debut this Saturday against Fiji in Suva. Renowned as one of the finest sevens players in history, Caslick has been selected on the bench by coach Jo Yapp as she evaluates her squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup in England later this year.
Caslick, who has been playing fullback for the Queensland Reds, will start from the bench as Yapp opts to keep Caitlyn Halse, a promising teenager, in the starting lineup for now. Despite her veteran status, the 30-year-old Caslick shared her excitement about joining the team, stating, “It’s been a while since I was a rookie, but I’m really enjoying the experience and learning so much at each session.”
Stepping out of her comfort zone, Caslick feels proud of her journey. “Being in a new environment is challenging, but I’m grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received in the groups I’ve joined, which has made the transition smoother,” she explained.
The match will see Caslick among six potential debutants, with NSW Waratahs prop Faliki Pohiva and ACT Brumbies hooker Katalina Amosa included in a revamped forward pack. Notably, Amosa is the sister of Wallabies hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa. Joining Caslick on the bench are fellow uncapped players Tia Hinds, Ashley Fernandez, and Martha Fua.
Siokapesi Palu will captain the Wallaroos, leading a fresh contingent. Yapp expressed her confidence in the new players stepping up, stating, “Each player in line for a debut deserves their opportunity, and this Test will help us explore new combinations. There are inspiring stories among the newcomers and those returning from long-term injuries.”
Yapp also acknowledged the challenge posed by the Fijiana team, particularly with their home crowd support: “They’ll provide us with a huge test in their own country, and we look forward to this exciting encounter in Suva.”
In related news, the Australian under-20 team drew 29-29 against New Zealand in a thrilling opener for the Rugby Championship in South Africa, thanks to a last-minute conversion by sevens star Sid Harvey.