FridayOL

The Wallaroos' journey to the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is well and truly underway, with the Pacific Four Series providing a crucial testing ground. A key area of focus for head coach Jayne Taumaunu and her staff is the crucial position of hooker – a cornerstone of any successful rugby team. With a number of talented players vying for the coveted number two jersey, the competition is fierce, and the selection decisions will be pivotal as they build towards the World Cup.

The Current Contenders

Several players are putting their hands up for selection, each bringing a unique skillset to the table. Let's take a closer look at the frontrunners:

• Fatima Tevao: A powerful scrummager with a reputation for dominating opponents, Tevao has been a mainstay in the Wallaroos squad for several years. Her experience and physicality make her a valuable asset, particularly in set pieces. However, her game around the park needs continued development.
• Amber Donnan: Donnan's rise has been meteoric. Her dynamic play around the field, combined with a surprisingly strong scrummaging technique, has quickly made her a fan favourite. She brings an energy and enthusiasm that's infectious, and her versatility (capable of playing across the front row) is a significant advantage.
• Grace Hamilton: A young and promising talent, Hamilton possesses excellent technical skills and a sharp rugby brain. While still developing her physicality, her accuracy at the lineout and her ability to read the game are impressive. Consistency will be key for Hamilton to cement her place.
• Adianna Edwards: A strong contender, Edwards combines solid scrummaging with good mobility. She’s a workhorse who consistently puts in a shift, and her reliability is a major draw for coaches.

What Taumaunu is Looking For

Jayne Taumaunu isn't just looking for a strong scrummager; she's seeking a hooker who can contribute across all aspects of the game. The modern game demands players who are fit, mobile, and capable of making impactful tackles and carries. A player who can effectively link with the backs and provide quick ball at the breakdown is also highly valued.

“We’re looking for a hooker who can not only hold their own in the scrum but also contribute significantly around the park,” Taumaunu stated recently. “The ability to secure clean ball at the lineout and make strong defensive plays are also crucial elements of our selection criteria.”

Pacific Four Series – A Vital Opportunity

The Pacific Four Series provides the Wallaroos with a fantastic opportunity to assess their options and experiment with different combinations. Matches against New Zealand, Canada, and the USA will test the players' skills and resilience, and the coaching staff will be closely monitoring their performances.

Looking Ahead to the World Cup

The 2025 Rugby World Cup in England represents a significant milestone for the Wallaroos. Securing a strong and reliable hooker is paramount to their success. The competition for the number two jersey is fierce, and the coming months will be crucial in determining who will wear the jersey with pride on the world stage. The Pacific Four Series will play a vital role in shaping this decision, and Australian rugby fans will be watching with keen interest to see who emerges as the Wallaroos’ starting hooker.