Rugby Union

'In awe': debutants named for new-look Wallaroos side

Mar 25, 2026

Western Force star Nicole Ledington has been called up for the Wallaroos' clash with Fiji. -AAP Image

A starry-eyed Lily Bone grew up dreaming of representing her country, whether it be in rugby, at the Olympics, or even hockey.

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Now the 21-year-old has been called up to the Wallaroos and is in line to make her debut against Fiji at GIO Stadium in Canberra on Friday.

"I'm still speechless. I had a bit of a cry on the phone with my family last night," Bone said.

"I could just imagine little Lily just jumping up and down with joy because I said to my family growing up that I wanted to play for Australia, or play in the Olympics, or do something to represent my country.

"I played rugby my whole life, so I don't know (what other sport I would represent Australia in). Maybe hockey. I did say one time in school I'd give hockey a crack.

"So I know little me would just be in awe of what I've achieved and how far I've come."

Bone is one of six potential debutants in Canberra as the Wallaroos look to rebuild in their first match after their crushing Rugby World Cup quarter-final exit last year.

Sevens stars Sidney Taylor and Piper Simons are part of the new-look group, while hooker Brittany Merlo is on the bench after an injury ruled her out of a first national appearance two years ago.

Western Force pair Brooklyn Teki-Joyce and Nicole Ledington will also debut, as the team is without veteran centre Trilleen Pomare (retirement), prop Lydia Kavoa (retirement), Katalina Amosa (knee) and Tania Naden (knee).

The clash will also be the Australians' first step as they build towards their home World Cup in 2029, but Ledington isn't getting ahead of herself.

"That's more in the back of my mind and not really a focus at the moment," she said.

"The focus is getting out there for my debut and having an awesome game."

With coach Jo Yapp leaving the Wallaroos set-up to move to England, former Waratah Sam Needs has taken the reins as interim coach.

A permanent coach is expected to be decided upon after the Pacific Four Series, with the Fiji clash the Wallaroos' sole hit-out before the series kicks off in April.

"I'd love to remain in the program in some capacity. It's been a great two and a half years," Needs said.

"We're looking forward to 2029, for the next four years, and that starts with the first Test, which is on Friday night."

WALLAROOS TEAM TO PLAY FIJI:

1. Brianna Hoy

2. Adiana Talakai

3. Bridie O'Gorman

4. Kaitlan Leaney

5. Ashley Fernandez

6. Siokapesi Palu Sekona (c)

7. Emily Chancellor

8. Piper Duck

9. Samantha Wood