On Friday, October 23, 2026, the Australian Wallaroos defeated Scotland 38-31 at GIO Stadium in Canberra to complete a dominant three-game series sweep. The encounter featured intense physicality, a flurry of cards, and emotional farewells for veteran players, wrapping up the 2026 season on a high note before the squad transitions into a full-time professional program next year.
What the Deal Is
The fixture marked the final Test of the 2026 season for the Wallaroos as they hosted Scotland in Canberra following previous victories in Sydney and Edinburgh. Coming off a strong WXV Global Series campaign, the Australian side aimed to seal an undefeated sweep against the tourists while managing an emotional night of milestones and retirements.
The Key Details
Australia secured the 38-31 win despite conceding four yellow cards and playing with reduced numbers at various stages. The match saw prop Eva Karpani reach a historic milestone by earning her 50th Test cap off the bench, becoming just the second Wallaroo to reach the half-century mark. Meanwhile, veteran stars Emily Chancellor and Cecilia Smith played their final international matches. Smith received a standing ovation and finished her career with a red card after earning two yellow cards during the contest.
Why It Happened
The hosts started brightly, jumping out to a 14-0 lead with early tries from Amelia Whitaker and Maya Stewart. However, discipline lapses and a lethal Scottish maul allowed the visitors to claw back into the game. Tries from Rachel Malcolm, Holland Bogan, and Katie Buchanan helped Scotland take a 17-14 lead into half-time. In the second half, the Wallaroos regained composure, relying on aggressive defence and efficient try-scoring through Faitala Moleka, Piper Duck, and captain Siokapesi Palu to reassert control.
What It Means for Both Clubs
For the Wallaroos, finishing the year with a clean sweep validates the growth achieved under interim leadership and sets a strong foundation for the future. With the program transitioning into a fully integrated, full-time professional operation next year under incoming coach Sione Fukofuka, the squad demonstrated the high ceiling of their attacking capabilities as preparations ramp up for the 2029 Women's Rugby World Cup in Australia. For Scotland, the performance highlighted immense grit through their forward pack and maul, though handling errors and missed execution in key moments prevented an upset.
Reactions and What Comes Next
Emotional scenes unfolded at full-time as teammates and fans bade farewell to outgoing legends. Reflecting on her career after receiving a warm send-off, Cecilia Smith shared her appreciation for the journey. “She’s been there since day one,” Smith said of her daughter Ruby. “Having her there at trainings, camps, on the sideline, means so much and I just want to be that role model and show you can do anything if you put your mind to it and put the hard work in.” Emily Chancellor also reflected on her 42-Test career: “It’s created so much opportunity for me, so much purpose in my life. I love these girls and what we play for.” The squad will now break for the off-season ahead of the transition to full-time contracting.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Wallaroos vs Scotland match?
The Wallaroos defeated Scotland 38-31 at GIO Stadium in Canberra.
Did Australia complete the series sweep?
Yes, the victory secured a three-game series sweep for the Wallaroos against Scotland.
Which players reached milestones or retired in this match?
Eva Karpani earned her 50th Test cap, while Emily Chancellor and Cecilia Smith played their final international matches before retirement.
Who is the incoming head coach for the Wallaroos?
Sione Fukofuka is set to take over as head coach as the program transitions to a full-time professional model.