Australia will host New Zealand in a historic women’s rugby union Test match on the Sunshine Coast on Anzac Day.
It will be the first time the Wallaroos have played the Black Ferns on Anzac Day, uniting both countries on a day of shared reflection and remembrance.
Sunshine Coast Stadium will host the evening Test as part of the Pacific Four series.
The match will be the first of two O’Reilly Cup Tests against New Zealand and one of 10 Tests for the Wallaroos in 2026.
Australia’s rivalry with New Zealand in women’s rugby first began in 1994 for the inaugural Test match between the two nations.
Since then both sides have played each other on 29 occasions, including three matches at a Rugby World Cup.
Wallaroos prop Eva Karpani said it will be an honour to play in the game and she plans on doing everything possible to make sure she is selected.
She said some of the Wallaroos players are in the Australian Defence Force and it will be a privilege to play alongside them on Anzac Day.
Rugby Australia Chief Executive, Phil Waugh, said “The eternal bond between Australia and New Zealand was forged on the first Anzac Day.
“More than neighbours, we are family, with shared values and ideals that have only strengthened through the years.
“We are therefore honoured to welcome the Black Ferns to our shores this Anzac Day for a first-of-its-kind Test match between our two great nations at Sunshine Coast Stadium.
“Rugby has a unique ability to unite and inspire communities and this Test match will go a step further, bringing together two countries on a day of reflection and gratitude for the service, sacrifice and spirit behind the Anzac legacy.”
Queensland Minister for Sport, Tim Mander, said “Elite sporting events on Anzac Day are a special tradition, and it’s appropriate that this huge game is hosted in Queensland, the sport capital of Australia.
“The Wallaroos taking on New Zealand on the Sunshine Coast will see this tradition continue with two nations that embody the Anzac spirit, guaranteeing a must-see clash.
“We want young Queenslanders to be inspired by world-class athletes in our own backyard, and its events like these that are crucial in the lead up to 2032,” Mr Mander said.
