Emily Chancellor is set to rejoin her NSW Waratahs teammates for a crucial trial match against the Blues in Auckland this Saturday. This game marks Chancellor’s much-anticipated return after an ACL injury sidelined her in the first round of the 2024 Super Rugby Women’s season. Both teams, having clinched their respective 2024 titles, are gearing up for a heavyweight showdown.
The Waratahs, eager to bounce back from a shaky start against the Hurricanes, will rely on Faliki Pohiva to lead the front row, supported by Wallaroo Bridie O’Gorman and Brittany Merlo. Jayjay Taylor and Tahila Morgan will debut as a second-row pair, while the back row remains steady with Captain Piper Duck at number eight, flanked by Leilani Nathan and Ruby Anderson.
A key change sees Caitlyn Halse stepping into the fly-half role for the first time, partnering with Tatum Bird at scrum-half. Veteran players Katrina Barker and Georgina Friedrichs will anchor the midfield, while the dynamic back three—Desiree Miller, Maya Stewart, and Waiaria Ellis—aim to exploit any attacking chances.
Head coach Mike Ruthven has chosen a 6-5 bench split, featuring Millie Parker, Emily Robinson, Seneti Kilismasi, and Siusiuosalafai Volkman as front-row substitutes. Chancellor will make her long-awaited return from the bench, nearly a year since her last appearance in the sky blue jersey. Hollie Cameron completes the forward pack. Among the backs, Tiarne Cavanagh will cover scrum-half duties, with Nicole Nathan, Jacinta Windsor, Jade Sheridan, and Amelia Whitaker rounding out the squad.
This match could be a preview of the 2025 Women’s Super Rugby Championship Final, as both teams aim for consecutive titles. It’s the perfect opportunity for them to establish their dominance before the season kicks off.
