Injury Woes Cloud Significant Wallaroos Victory as Coach Awaits News on Key Players Ahead of Rugby World Cup

The Wallaroos secured a convincing victory over Fiji in Suva on Saturday; however, the match was marred by a double injury setback that will undoubtedly concern coach Jo Yapp.

Australia triumphed with a score of 43-7, marking their first win in the newly inaugurated Vuvale Bowl, celebrated on Fijian soil for the first time with a women’s Test match.

Notably, the spotlight fell on a non-contact knee injury sustained by talented winger Maya Stewart in the 19th minute.

After delivering a pass, Stewart, who had previously endured a serious ACL injury in 2022, collapsed in agony, prompting a lengthy delay for assessment.

Limping off the playing field at HFC Bank Stadium and visibly distressed, Stewart is crucial to Australia’s attacking strategy as they set their sights on the upcoming Rugby World Cup in England in August 2025.

The situation worsened for Yapp as another key player, centre Bienne Terita, was carried off with a hamstring injury after scoring two tries. She was replaced on her Wallaroos debut by Charlotte Caslick, who had previously converted to the 15-a-side game.

A representative from the Wallaroos confirmed that both Stewart and Terita would undergo scans to assess the extent of their injuries.

Yapp commented, “Both players will undergo thorough medical evaluations, and until we receive the full report, we can’t ascertain the situation.” She added, “They’re both favourites within the team, and it’s always disheartening to see players get injured, especially with the World Cup on the horizon. We’re hoping the injuries aren’t severe, and that we can welcome them back soon.”

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“However, this has certainly cast a bit of a shadow over the mood for both the players and staff, as we genuinely care for our teammates. We’re crossing our fingers that the injuries aren’t too serious.”

Fiji initially took the lead through their captain Alfreda Fisher, but from that point forward, it was largely one-sided.

Australia’s scoring was complemented by tries from fullback Caitlyn Halse, captain Siokapesi Palu, winger Desiree Miller, halfback Layne Morgan, and hooker Tania Naden.

Siokapesi Palu remarked post-match, “The mild weather certainly worked to our advantage. We focus on growth and I’m incredibly proud of our girls, especially with several debutants joining the squad. However, credit must go to Fiji; they are a physical side, which was evident in the second half.”

As Australia turns its focus to their upcoming match against world champions New Zealand in the Pacific Four Series opener in Newcastle next Saturday, the challenge intensifies significantly.