Australia’s Women’s Rugby World Cup encounter against the United States has taken an unexpected turn with veteran centre Alev Kelter being omitted from the Eagles’ lineup ahead of their match in York on Sunday (AEST). Kelter, an Olympic bronze medallist, faced disciplinary action after being ejected during a game in May for unsporting conduct, which included a series of stomping incidents that referee Aimee Barrett-Theron deemed “thuggish.” Fortunately, Wallaroos player Georgina Friedrichs avoided serious injury despite the attack.
Kelter received a three-week ban for her actions, allowing her to participate in the World Cup’s opening match against England, where the Eagles suffered a heavy 69-7 defeat. In that match, Kelter’s performance was marred by five turnovers, and she was penalised for a cynical play, leading to her exclusion from the upcoming game.
In her absence, Emily Henrich will wear the No.12 jersey to partner the popular Ilona Maher in the centres. The Wallaroos, fresh off a record 73-0 win over Samoa, have made several changes to their squad, with coach Jo Yapp optimistic about their fitness and team cohesion.
Teenager Caitlyn Halse has been highlighted for her outstanding performance, becoming the youngest Australian to score at a World Cup. Analysts believe she has the potential to inspire the next generation of rugby players, drawing parallels to the celebrated Charlotte Caslick.
The Wallaroos are eager to secure a place in the quarter-finals and will face a physically imposing American side. Yapp noted the significance of the upcoming match and expressed confidence in her team’s preparations. Kelter’s removal from the Eagles’ squad, combined with the Wallaroos’ recent success, sets the stage for a competitive showdown as both teams vie to assert their dominance in the tournament.
The Wallaroos squad features Caitlyn Halse, Maya Stewart, Georgina Friedrichs, and other key players, with some experienced faces expected to make an impact. Despite the absence of captain Siokapesi Palu due to injury, the team is focused on rising to the challenge ahead. Their historical record against the USA shows three wins from nine encounters, adding to the stakes of this critical match.