I’m certain they don’t hold any resentment: Injury hurdle in effort to invigorate Rugby World Cup squad

A wave of injuries has added complexity to the Wallaroos’ efforts to bolster their lineup with an influx of talent from the Australian sevens squad.

Nine players from Australia’s women’s sevens team have expressed interest in being selected for the Wallaroos ahead of the Rugby World Cup in England scheduled for August and September.

These athletes will also be available to participate in some Super Rugby Women’s matches throughout the season as they balance their sevens commitments.

Initially, the plan was for the nine players to compete in sevens in Vancouver this weekend before returning to Australia for the second and third rounds of Super Rugby.

However, Maddison Levi (thumb), Sariah Paki (calf), and Bienne Terita (hamstring) are all set to miss the Vancouver tournament and are optimistic about returning for the Hong Kong Sevens on March 28.

Consequently, their involvement in Super Rugby is now uncertain.

“We are currently working in partnership with our strength and conditioning and medical teams as we manage the injuries,” Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp informed journalists during the Super Rugby launch on Wednesday at North Sydney Oval.

“It’s crucial that we maintain clear communication with the 15s players right from the beginning. This transparency is fundamental.

“We’ve always been clear that we wouldn’t just bring someone in a week before the World Cup, but we need to collaborate with each of them on an individual basis. I genuinely believe that the Wallaroos squad appreciates this approach.

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“They recognise that adding depth to our program is beneficial, and we’ve already seen some girls step up because competition for spots is healthy.”

Maddison and Teagan Levi have signed with the Queensland Reds, alongside Charlotte Caslick, Isabella Nasser, and Kahli Henwood.

Meanwhile, Terita, Demi Hayes, and Tia Hinds are joining the ACT Brumbies, while Paki has signed with the NSW Waratahs.

“This decision is tailored specifically to each individual, ensuring those who are fit will undoubtedly get the opportunity for both games,” Yapp stated.

“We’ll then assess their further prospects after those matches, while also noting that some are returning from injuries, which will affect their future contributions.”

“It’s unrealistic to expect all nine players to come in and dominate right away.

Competition for positions is the reality we face.”

The Super Rugby season will commence on February 28 with a grand final rematch between the defending champions, the Waratahs, and the Fijian Drua at Allianz Stadium.