28 August 2025
The ADF Women’s Rugby Union team has kicked off its International Defence Rugby Competition campaign in the UK with a win and two losses.
The tournament, running from August 15 to September 4, brings together elite teams from nations around the world, including Fiji, France, Tonga, Zambia and the UK, in a contest of skill, strategy and camaraderie.
Co-captain Leading Aircraftwoman Caitlyn Costello said the ADF team had been looking forward to the tour.
“We are very excited, and as a playing group we’re confident in our ability, skilfulness and depth,” Leading Aircraftwoman Costello said.
“But we will need to finish first or second in our group to progress to the finals – so we need to make sure we’re building on every game.”
The Australian team was drawn in pool B along with Fiji, France and the UK Looseheads.
Its opening match was against the defending champions France at Maidenhead, west of London.
Australia lost 22-17 in a hard-fought battle, with two tries to Leading Seaman Monifah See Kee and one try for Corporal Sarah Riordan.
The team then scored a strong 81-7 victory over the UK Looseheads, before tackling Fiji mid-week.
Australia started strongly against Fiji but went down in a hard-fought second half, losing 26-20 at Aldershot Barracks, south-west of London.
On Friday, Australia face Tonga at Guildford, south of London.
'We are made of individuals from all three services, different ranks and categories but all united for the challenge ahead.'
Canberra-based team manager Wing Commander Esther Suh said the team would learn and build on the lessons for the next match.
“The level of motivation is very high,” Wing Commander Suh said.
“For most of the team, this is the first time they have played at such a high standard and to be able to do it for our country and for the ADF is a wonderful opportunity.”
Forty-four players tried out for the squad of 30 during an intense training camp in Sydney earlier this month.
“The level of competition for places on the team was very competitive and because of that, it raised the standard of play as well,” Wing Commander Suh said.
“We are made of individuals from all three services, different ranks and categories, but all united for the challenge ahead.”
The team also includes the contingent commander, two managers, two coaches, two physiotherapists and one doctor.
The Head of the Australian Defence Staff in London, Air Commodore Matthew Harper, took part in a formal reception for the team at Australia House.
“We are incredibly proud of this team, representing Australia on the international stage,” Air Commodore Harper said.
“I don’t think anyone is under any illusion about the challenge ahead but the commitment, passion and ability of these players is inspiring and will make the team very competitive.”
The ADF is supporting the transport costs of the Fijian and Tongan teams to be able to participate.
“It’s great to be united with our South Pacific neighbours in this rugby competition,” Wing Commander Suh said.
The finals will be played on September 2 and 3.
The International Women’s Defence Rugby tournament is acting as a curtain-raiser to the Women’s World Cup, also being held in the UK.
