Injury-free Maya Stewart headlines Waratahs side for Super Rugby Women's semi-final

Maya Stewart makes her first appearance of the 2026 season for the NSW Waratahs on Saturday, named in the starting XV for a Super Rugby Women’s semi-final against the Western Force at Perth’s HBF Park, with kick-off at 4:00 AEST.

The Wallaroos winger missed the entire regular season with an ankle injury but returns at a critical moment for a Waratahs side chasing a third consecutive Super Rugby Women’s title. Australia Sevens playmaker Tia Hinds also features, making her Waratahs debut at scrum-half — one of three changes to the starting lineup from the side beaten 26-19 by the Queensland Reds in Sydney.

Vice-captain Desiree Miller drops to the bench, with Amelia Whitaker completing the back three alongside Stewart. Faliki Pohiva also comes into the front row in place of Bridie O’Gorman.

“We welcome the return of Maya Stewart and Caitlyn Halse and the Waratahs debut of Tia Hinds this week,” said coach Ruthven. “To have their experience join the group at a critical time is incredibly valuable for the team. The return of these players has allowed us to look at a different picture in the backline which we are really excited about.”

Despite their title ambitions, the Waratahs endured a difficult regular season, suffering first-ever losses to both the Western Force and the Reds to finish third in the round robin. The Fijian Drua claimed top spot.

Ruthven remained upbeat ahead of the knockout tie. “As a group we have had a really productive two weeks and have strong confidence in how we want to attack this game. Everyone is looking forward to the opportunity in front of us.”

Pohiva joins Brianna Hoy and Brittany Merlo in an all-Wallaroos front row, with Leilani Nathan and Kaitlan Leaney completing the tight five. Ruby Andersona and captain Emily Chancellor start at flanker, with Piper Duck at number eight. Hinds partners capped Wallaroo Waiaria Ellis in the halves, while Rosie Ferguson and Pleuni Kievit combine in midfield. Miller will wear the number 15 jersey from the bench.

The match forms part of a historic double-header alongside the Nations Championship fixture between the Wallaroos and Italy.