3 minute read
Michaela Leonard will become the Wallaroos’ most capped player as Australia face New Zealand in the Pacific Four Series finale.
Michaela Leonard is set to become the most capped player in Wallaroos history, a milestone she admits once seemed unlikely given her late introduction to the sport.
The 31-year-old lock will earn her 46th Test cap against New Zealand at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday, surpassing previous records since debuting in 2019.
Leonard has since featured at World Cups and in the Pacific Four Series, establishing herself as a central figure in Australia's forward pack.
Reflecting on her journey, Leonard acknowledged she was still learning the laws of the game when she made her debut.
She described her rise as a reflection of the broader development within women's rugby in Australia and said her focus now is on helping guide the next generation ahead of a home World Cup in 2029.
Australia enter the match looking to finish their Pacific Four campaign on a positive note after losses to the United States and Canada.
The side remains a clear outsider against New Zealand, who have long dominated the trans-Tasman rivalry.
Leonard is part of a rotated squad, with Lily Bone, Brittany Merlo, Ashley Fernandez and Piper Simons returning.
Martha Fua comes in for the injured Faliki Pohiva, while teenager Waiaria Ellis will start at fullback, with Faitala Moleka shifting to flyhalf.
Saturday's Test will also be the final match for interim coach Sam Needs, with Rugby Australia set to appoint a permanent head coach after the series.
Leonard credited Needs with strengthening connections within the squad, while the coach emphasised the team's ongoing growth despite the experience gap compared to their New Zealand counterparts.