Wallaroos recall starters as forward pack bolstered for Canada clash

Fri, Apr 10, 2026, 12:00 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson

Wallaroos coach Sam Needs has made a host of changes to the starting line-up in the quest for a maiden win over Canada in Sacramento on Sunday (AEST).

It comes after Needs opts for a 6-2 bench split as they look to match the physicality of the World Cup finalists.

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Kaitlan Leaney has shifted into the back-row, allowing Tiarah Minns to start alongside Michaela Leonard in the locks.

It sees captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona move to number eight, with Piper Duck added to the finishers.

In the backline, Desiree Miller and Georgina Friedrichs regain their spots in the starting side after strong performances off the bench in the win over Fijiana.

Nicole Ledington and Sidney Taylor retain their spots in the starting side following their debuts, with Taylor shifting to inside centre.

Brittany Merlo and Lily Bone also maintain their spots on the bench, with Eva Karpani and Duck adding experience in the forwards.

Waiaria Ellis has recovered from her knock to take her spot as the utility back, expected to cover the halves and fullback.

Cecilia Smith rounds out the 23, with the Aussies looking for their first win over the Canadians.

“We’ve settled into the US and have trained really well with a healthy squad to choose from,” Needs said.

"There’s been intense competition for spots that’s only bringing the best out in players.

"Canada are a great side but for us this week it's about sticking to our processes and building upon the win against Fijiana. 

"It's great for Tiarah Minns and Waiaria Ellis to each get another opportunity with the side and we’re all excited to play well on Saturday."

WALLAROOS TEAM TO PLAY CANADA

1. Brianna Hoy (#203 - NSW Waratahs/Coffs Harbour Snappers) – 10 caps

2. Adiana Talakai (#182 - NSW Waratahs/Sydney University) – 22 caps

3. Bridie O’Gorman (#180 - NSW Waratahs/Sydney University) – 38 caps

4. Michaela Leonard (#168 - Western Force/Tuggeranong Vikings) – 43 caps

5. Tiarah Minns (#217 - Queensland Reds/Melbourne University) – 3 caps

6. Kaitlan Leaney (#179 - NSW Waratahs/SCU Marlins) – 36 caps

7. Emily Chancellor (#158 - NSW Waratahs/Sydney University) – 35 caps

8. Siokapesi Palu Sekona (c) (#194 - ACT Brumbies/Rockdale Rangers) – 24 caps

9. Samantha Wood (#207 - Western Force/Kalamunda Rugby Club) – 12 caps

10. Nicole Ledington (#226 - Western Force/Kalamunda Rugby Club) – 1 cap

11. Desiree Miller (#204 - NSW Waratahs/Eastern Suburbs) – 24 caps

12. Sidney Taylor (#227 - Queensland Reds/Wests Bulldogs) – 1 cap

13. Georgina Friedrichs (#178 - NSW Waratahs/Wests Bulldogs) – 39 caps

14. Maya Stewart (#196 - NSW Waratahs/Nelson Bay Gropers) – 23 caps

15. Faitala Moleka (#199 - ACT Brumbies/Blacktown Scorpions) – 27 caps

Reserves

16. Brittany Merlo (#230 - NSW Waratahs/Sydney University) – 1 cap

17. Faliki Pohiva (#219 - NSW Waratahs/Blacktown Scorpions) – 8 caps

18. Eva Karpani (#171 - Queensland Reds/Southern Suburbs) – 42 caps

19. Ashley Fernandez (#221 - ACT Brumbies/Uni-North Owls) – 7 caps

20. Lily Bone (#229 - ACT Brumbies/Orange City) – 1 cap

21. Piper Duck (#185 - NSW Waratahs/Tumut Bullettes) – 23 caps

22. Waiaria Ellis (#225 - NSW Waratahs/Blacktown Scorpions) – 3 caps

23. Cecilia Smith (#190 - Western Force/Leeton Dianas) – 29 caps

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