Karpani one cap away from 50-Test milestone as Wallaroos name squad to face Scotland

Eva Karpani is on the verge of a significant personal milestone after being named among the reserves in Australia’s 23-player squad for their WXV clash against Scotland, with the experienced prop set to win her 49th Wallaroos cap.

The Queensland Reds front-rower will be one of two representatives from her Super Rugby club in the matchday squad, alongside Reds captain Jemma Bemrose, who is also selected on the bench. Karpani’s inclusion means she will need just one more appearance to join an exclusive group of Wallaroos to reach 50 Test caps.

Maya Stewart’s return is another notable selection, with the prolific try-scorer coming straight back into the starting XV after overcoming an injury. She lines up on the wing alongside Amelia Whitaker and Desiree Miller in an all-NSW Waratahs back three, with Miller shifting from the wing to fullback. Cecilia Smith also returns to the squad, named at No. 23.

The starting front row is an all-Waratahs affair, with Brianna Hoy, Brittany Merlo and Faliki Pohiva packing down together, joined by New South Wales teammate Kaitlan Leaney in the tight five. Michaela Leonard, the most-capped Wallaroo in history, starts alongside Leaney at lock. Wallaroos captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona starts at blindside flanker, with Piper Duck on the openside and Pia Tapsell at No. 8.

Samantha Wood and Waiaria Ellis form the halfback pairing, with Faitala Moleka and Georgina Friedrichs named in the centres.

Director of Women’s High Performance Tim Walsh said the selection reflected a deliberate strategy of building cohesion across the WXV campaign.

“We have maintained considerable selection consistency throughout the WXV, strategically strengthening our cohesion and combinations,” Walsh said. “During the WXV we have layered specific areas of our game to build stronger performances each test. We have selected a balanced 23 armed with leadership, power, strength and speed.”