NSW Waratahs Women's Hooker Adiana Talakai Focused on Semi-Final Win against Western Force

NSW Waratahs Women’s hooker Adiana Talakai is determined to lead her side to another Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final as they prepare for a crucial semi-final clash against the Western Force at Leichhardt Oval this Sunday.

The defending champions, who are chasing a sixth title, are focused on delivering their best performance to secure a final berth at North Sydney Oval next week.

Reflecting on the team’s preparation since last weekend’s 36-23 win over the ACT Brumbies in Canberra, Talakai said it aims to build on momentum.

“The mood in camp is really good,” Talakai said on Tuesday at the NSW Waratahs Women’s training base at Daceyville in Sydney.

“We had a solid training session yesterday, and while the girls enjoyed the win on the weekend, we know that the job isn’t done yet.

“We’ve spoken about how this could either be another week of training for the Grand Final or our last few sessions of the season. It’s up to us to decide our fate.”

The NSW Waratahs Women have been dominant in recent years, but they have experienced disappointment, including a semi-final exit two years ago.

Talakai believes the pain of past defeats is motivation rather than a burden.

“We’re not dwelling on that game, but we do remember how it felt,” Talakai said.

“That hurt of not making it to where we wanted to be still lingers, and we don’t want to experience that again.”

The Western Force will pose a formidable challenge, having shown their attacking capabilities earlier this season.

Talakai remains confident in her team’s ability to control the game and dictate the pace.

“We’ve reviewed our performances, and while we know we can play better, we haven’t quite put together a complete performance yet,” she said.

“We’ve made things hard for ourselves in previous matches, and this week, it’s all about executing our game plan efficiently.”

The NSW Waratahs Women are still searching for their peak form.

Talakai said while results have been positive, the team is pushing to reach another level.

“There are always positives, but we know we can go even further,” she said.

“The girls are eager to show what we’re truly capable of.”

Talakai played a crucial role in the NSW Waratahs’ comeback against the Western Force earlier this season, scoring the decisive try in a narrow victory.

However, she credits the team’s collective effort.

“It was a great team try. I just had to put the ball down,” she said with a smile.

“As the season has progressed, our set piece has really improved, and it has played a big role in key moments.”

Talakai also praised teammate and prop Faliki Pohiva for her outstanding performances this season.

After taking time away from the game to have a child, Pohiva has returned stronger than ever, earning recognition as one of the standout props in the competition.

“She’s been incredible,” Talakai said.

“I believe there’s something special about women who return after having children – they come back with even more drive.

“Faliki has been a massive asset for us, and I have no doubt she can make an impact at the next level if given the opportunity.”

With the possibility of securing back-to-back titles, the NSW Waratahs Women are drawing motivation from the prospect of hosting the final at North Sydney Oval.

Talakai believes the home advantage is a significant boost.

“It’s a relief to have the Grand Final in our backyard,” she said.

“For some of the girls, it means playing in front of family and friends, which is always special.

“For me, it’s about the practical advantage – not having to travel.

“If we had to go to Western Australia, that would have been tough.

“But honestly, my main focus is just getting out there and dominating. I just want to smash them.”

Tickets for the Super Rugby Women's semi-final went on sale via Ticketek today at 2:00 pm [AEDT]. To buy tickets, click HERE

When: at 3.05 pm (AEDT) Sunday, 6 April 2025

Where: Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

The game will be televised Live on Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby