NSW Waratahs Women's Head Coach Mike Ruthven says Saturday’s match against Penina Pasifika is crucial for the rest of the Super Rugby Women’s season, even though it is not a competition fixture, but a ‘development game’.
With a noticeably different lineup from the first three rounds of Super Rugby Women’s - of which Saturday’s fixture is not included - Ruthven said it is an invaluable opportunity for players with limited game time so far this season.
“This week is an opportunity for us to see some players that we haven't had a chance to assess in rounds one, two and three,” Ruthven said.
“It’s a really exciting chance for them to step up and continue the positive momentum we’ve built over the past two weeks.”
Despite being referred to as a ‘development game,’ Ruthven was clear that the match still holds significant importance for the NSW Waratahs.
“This is certainly not a development game from our perspective,” Ruthven said.
“That’s not the narrative for us. This is a NSW Waratahs Women’s fixture that falls within our bye round of Super Rugby Women’s, and we are treating it as such.”
One of the key inclusions in the starting lineup is prop Seneti Kilisimasi who impressed off the bench last week, even scoring a try.
Ruthven expressed his eagerness to see what Kilisimasi bring from the outset.
“Neti came off the bench last week and did a great job,” Ruthven said.
“Now, she has the opportunity to start, and we are keen to challenge her to have a similar impact from the beginning of the game.”
Additionally, Desiree Miller, selected as fullback, will captain the side, marking a significant milestone in her career.
“This is a great opportunity for Desi and a reflection of her standing within our group,” Ruthven said.
“She’s a highly respected player and a genuine professional in how she conducts herself on and off the field.
“It’s a well-deserved honour, and we look forward to seeing her leadership in action.”
While the squad features new faces in the starting lineup, there will be experienced players coming off the bench, including Wallaroos representatives Emily Chancellor and Maya Stewart.
“In a five-round competition [of Super Women’s Rugby], there’s not a lot of footy to be played,” Ruthven explained.
“We want to give our players as much game time as possible.
“This approach allows us to manage those who have played big minutes while also keeping them sharp heading into the next round.”
The NSW Waratahs Women are eager to use this match as a chance to develop squad depth while maintaining the high standards that have defined their campaign so far.
With a mix of emerging talent and experienced campaigners, Ruthven and his team are looking forward to another strong per
- Siusiuosalafai Volkman
2. Millie Parker
3. Seneti Kilisimasi
4. Jayjay Taylor
5. Tahlia Morgan
6. Leilani Nathan
7. Anahera Hamahona
8. Ruby Anderson
9. Martha Harvey
10. Waiaria Ellis
11. Jacinta Windsor
12. Nicole Nathan
13. Jade Sheridan
14. Amelia Whitaker
15. Desiree Miller (c)
Reserves
16. Brittany Merlo
17. Georgia Chapple
18. Faliki Pohiva
19. Annabelle Codey
20. Emily Chancellor (vc)
21. Tiarne Cavanagh
22. Annabelle McKenzie
23. Maya Stewart
24. Holli Cameron
25. Coco Marsters
When: at 4 pm (AEDT) Saturday, 22 March
Where: David Phillips Sport Field, Daceyville
The game will be televised streamed LIVE on www.nswrugbytv.com.au
