Wallaroos lose star but regain experience for historic 'quadruple header'

Maya Stewart returns to the Wallaroos' starting lineup for their Test match against Scotland, replacing injured fullback Caitlyn Halse who will be out due to concussion concerns. Halse's absence is a setback for the Wallaroos, but Stewart's experience and return from an Achilles tendon injury provide a valuable boost to the team.

Stewart, a 27-Test veteran with the Wallaroos, will now share the wing position with Desiree Miller, who moves from wing to fullback to replace Halse. In the forward pack, captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona and Pia Tapsell switch positions, with Palu Sekona starting at blindside flanker and Tapsell playing at number eight. Younger players Eva Karpani and Cecilia Smith have rejoined the reserves bench, bolstered by the addition of Allana Sikimeti and Piper Simons.

Rugby Australia's director of women's high performance, Tim Walsh, emphasized the team's cohesive approach and strategic strengthening throughout the WXV, highlighting the balanced and experienced nature of the 23-player squad. The Wallaroos are aiming for a back-to-back victory over Scotland, having recently defeated the Scots 30-10 in Edinburgh.

The match will be part of a rugby quadruple header featuring the Wallabies vs. All Blacks (Bledisloe Cup), the Australian women's and men's sevens teams, and Australia's men's team facing Fiji.