Sevens star Maddison Levi set to debut for Wallaroos in historic 100th Test against Black Ferns

Maddison Levi, Australia’s all-time leading Sevens try-scorer and 2024 World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, is set to make her Wallaroos XV debut against the Black Ferns in Auckland — a match that also marks Australia’s 100th Test in the women’s game.

Levi is one of two uncapped players named in the squad, alongside Pia Tapsell, a former Black Ferns international who represented New Zealand six times between 2019 and 2020 before relocating to the Western Force and becoming eligible to switch allegiances. The pair’s inclusions give the milestone occasion an added layer of significance.

Levi is not the only Sevens crossover in the side. Tia Hinds and Bienne Terita have both been capped at the highest level in the shortened format, while Hinds is named in the starting halves alongside Waiaria Ellis — a pairing that helped the NSW Waratahs claim a third consecutive Super Rugby Women’s title.

Alysia Lefau-Fakosilea returns to the Wallaroos starting XV for the first time in seven years, named at outside centre alongside Cecilia Smith. Desiree Miller and Maya Stewart start on the wings, with Faitala Moleka at fullback.

In the forwards, Siokapesi Palu Sekona captains the side from blindside flanker, with Lily Bone and Piper Duck completing the loose forward trio. The most capped Wallaroo ever, Michael Leonard, partners Kaitlan Leaney in the second row, while Brianna Hoy, Tania Naden and Eva Karpani form the front row.

Director of Women’s High Performance Tim Walsh said the squad had arrived in Auckland early to prepare for what he described as a historic occasion. “To be part of the 100th Wallaroos Test is special and the players are honoured to be part of the milestone and to play for all those who have worn the jersey before them,” Walsh said.

On the two debutants, Walsh added: “Pia’s last Test match was playing for the Black Ferns and Maddison a superstar in the Sevens format and coming off World Championship-winning matches against the Black Ferns Sevens.”

The Wallaroos have played 99 Tests to date, making Saturday’s clash in Auckland a landmark moment for Australian women’s rugby.