Charlotte Caslick, the reigning queen of Sevens rugby, is set to make her first starting appearance for the Wallaroos against New Zealand, the current world champions, in Newcastle this Saturday. After debuting off the bench during last week’s resounding 43-7 victory over Fiji in Suva, Caslick steps into the No.14 jersey due to a knee injury sustained by top winger Maya Stewart.
In addition to Stewart’s absence, fullback Caitlyn Halse and centre Bienne Terita are also sidelined with hamstring injuries. Their positions will be filled by Faitala Moleka and Georgina Friedrichs, while Tia Hinds, another player transitioning from the Sevens format, will take on the No.10 role. The team will also see the return of lock Kaitlan Leaney and prop Bridie O’Gorman after being rested last week. Historically, the Wallaroos have struggled against the Black Ferns, having yet to secure a victory against them.
On the other side, the Black Ferns are introducing teenage talent Braxton Sorensen-McGee, who will make her debut at fullback. Meanwhile, prop Awhina Tangen-Wainohu returns from a lengthy absence following the 2022 Rugby World Cup and will start on the bench. Black Ferns Director of Performance, Allan Bunting, expressed his admiration for Sorensen-McGee’s poise in training and anticipation for her first appearance in the national jersey.
Bunting highlighted the team’s focus on consistent form for selections and praised the group’s commitment and attitude. At just 18 years old, Sorensen-McGee opted for rugby over the Warriors women’s league team, showcasing her potential after an impressive stint with the Blues in Super Rugby. Her lineage includes notable Kiwis league players, Kurt and Dane Sorensen, adding to the excitement surrounding her debut.
Fans can catch all the action from the Wallaroos’ 2025 season live and on demand via Stan Sport, the exclusive broadcaster for this thrilling series.