Nothing wipes a Charlotte Caslick smile faster than the memory of Australia's 2023 Paris Olympic Sevens semi final clash with Canada.
Leading 12-0 at Stade de France, Caslick's side seemed destined for a gold-medal bout before the Canadians stormed back to snatch a 21-12 victory, breaking Australian hearts and sparking a fierce rivalry with the North American powerhouse.
Get your tickets to see Wallaroos v Canada in Brisbane on Friday here.
Now, the Sevens star will have a chance to flip the script on Friday when she takes centre stage in Australia's bid for a maiden women's XVs win over Canada - currently ranked world number two.
"There’s a good rivalry that’s been developed over a long period and … a fair few Sevens girls playing this weekend," Caslick told rugby.com.au on Wednesday.
"I know Olivia Apps is in there, and Flo (Florence) Symonds is in at 13. They’re both very good players, so we’ll be looking out for them."
Of the five matchday changes made by coach Jo Yapp, Caslick's shift from the wing to inside centre has attracted the most interest, with the 30-year-old now set to mark Canada and Exeter Chiefs veteran Alexandra Tessier down the 12 channel.
However, Caslick's move opens the door for returning Brumbies flyer Biola Dawa and an entirely new Wallaroos midfield combination with childhood rival-turned-teammate Georgina Friedrichs.
"Just defensively being in the centres is going to be different for me, I haven’t played much in the middle of the field," Caslick said.
"That’ll be a challenge, but I’m looking forward to it.
"We’re just trying some new things and having opportunities in different places. I guess moving into the World Cup, they want to see all the girls play in different roles and see what we can do, so this weekend’s about growth for the whole squad.
"Obviously, G-Fred’s an amazing defender, and I think everyone knows she’s world-class with those defensive reads and her work rate. She’s great to play alongside - we’ve played rugby together since we were kids, so we’ve got that partnership already."
Incredibly, Caslick's fourth Test cap will also mark the Queenslander's first ever on-field appearance at Suncorp Stadium.
"It’s pretty cool – I've actually never played at Suncorp before," Caslick said.
"Growing up as a huge Queensland Reds fan and Queensland Maroons fan … I’m really looking forward to it, I’ve got a fair few friends and family coming out as well."
Should the Wallaroos produce a historic win over Canada on Friday, they'll also remain an outside chance of claiming the 2025 Pacific Four Series.
However, Australia's hopes also rely on the USA defeating New Zealand and finishing with the same number of bonus points as Canada and the Black Ferns.
