Charlotte Caslick, the renowned Sevens rugby player, has made it into Australia’s Rugby World Cup squad despite being sidelined by injury. On Saturday night, she was observed watching the Wallabies from a wheelchair during their match against the British and Irish Lions at Accor Stadium in Sydney. Caslick humorously referred to her wheelchair as part of "load management" while she recovers from an ankle syndesmosis injury sustained in July during a game against New Zealand.
Accompanied by fellow Wallaroos players Siokapesi Palu and Brianna Hoy, Caslick is not expected to be fit for Australia’s opening World Cup match against Samoa on August 23, though all three players are anticipated to be available later in the tournament. Other players such as Sally Fuesaina, Atasi Lafai, Leilani Nathan, and Bienne Terita were omitted from selection due to various injuries.
Among the squad, teenage talents Caitlyn Halse (18) and Waiaria Ellis (17) have the chance to become the youngest Wallaroos to compete in a World Cup. If they play in the tournament, they would surpass the existing record set by Millie Boyle in 2022.
Additionally, Wallaroos lock Annabelle Codey aims to follow in her father’s footsteps to represent Australia at a World Cup, while Katalina Amosa, sister of Wallaby Brandon Paenga-Amosa, is one of three hookers selected in the squad.
Australia’s coach Jo Yapp expressed pride in the diverse and dedicated team, highlighting their journey over the past two years as they prepare for the World Cup, the pinnacle of women’s rugby, set to take place in England later this month. Yapp noted the squad’s readiness to perform on the international stage. The World Cup is poised to be the largest women’s rugby event to date, with over 300,000 tickets sold.
The Wallaroos will kick off their campaign against Samoa, followed by matches against the USA and the formidable England. The team is scheduled to depart for the UK on August 11, based in Manchester ahead of their first match.
Wallaroos World Cup 2025 Squad Highlights:
The squad features a rich mix of experience and youth, with debutants included among the ranks. The upcoming fixtures promise exciting moments as Australia aims for glory in the tournament.
Upcoming Matches:
- August 23: Wallaroos vs Samoa at Salford Community Stadium, Manchester.
- August 31: Wallaroos vs USA at York Community Stadium, York.
- September 7: Wallaroos vs England at Brighton and Hove Stadium.
With a blend of seasoned players and emerging stars, the Wallaroos are focused on making their mark at the 2025 Rugby World Cup.