History-making teenager among latest Wallaroos re-signings

Rugby Australia has announced the latest Wallaroos quartet to re-sign for 2026, and the team’s youngest-ever debutant, Caitlyn Halse, is one of the four to put pen to paper.

Halse, now 19, debuted at just 17 and made more history this year as the youngest Australian to play a Women’s Rugby World Cup, where she scored four tries in as many games.

General Manager of Women’s Rugby, Jilly Collins, spoke to Rugby Australia’s joy at retaining such an exciting talent.

“Caitlyn is one of the most exciting young players in Australian rugby,” Collins said of the fullback.

“She brings immense value to our squad, not just with her skills on the field but through the energy she embodies.

“We are delighted to have her locked in. She is a crucial part of our future as we build towards the 2029 World Cup.”

Halse is joined by Katalina Amosa, Atasi Lafai and Faliki Pohiva, who have each been strong contributors to the Wallaroos’ tight five.

Brumbies hooker Amosa claimed nine caps in her rookie international season in 2025, emerging as one of Australia’s most promising front rowers.

“Kat had a meteoric rise, moving from Super Rugby Women’s to the Wallaroos squad on the back of her outstanding form,” Collins added.

“She is now an exciting player we expect to be integral to the Wallaroos team in the years to come.”

Waratahs lock Lafai will be looking to bounce back from injury in 2026, and with 18 Test caps since her 2018 debut, she remains a central figure in the Australian pack’s brains trust.

“While Atasi missed the season due to injury, she is absolutely someone we wanted to keep,” Collins explained.

“She is a strong lock and we are confident she can return to her very best. We’re delighted she’s staying with the squad.”

Waratahs prop Pohiva was another 2025 debutant who showed immense promise, earning herself another contract with strong showings at the Rugby World Cup in England.

“Faliki demonstrated tremendous growth in her debut year and still has so much more to offer the Wallaroos,” Collins said.

“She has already proven herself to be a damaging player, and she has the potential to become one of the world’s best props.”