Maya Stewart returns for Waratahs in Super W semi‑final

Veteran Wallaroo Maya Stewart is back from an ankle injury and will start for the NSW Waratahs in Saturday’s Super Rugby Women semi‑final against the Western Force at Perth’s HBF Park. The 26‑year‑old flyer, tied with Desiree Miller at 16 career tries, joins a back‑line that also features two‑time Rugby Sevens Olympian Tia Hinds at scrum‑half, while prop Faliki Pohiva comes off the bench alongside front‑row internationals Britt Merlo and Brianna Hoy. Teen outside back Caitlyn Halse returns from a long‑term injury.

The Waratahs, six‑time premiers and current third‑place (2‑2) on the ladder, are chasing an unprecedented seventh title. The re‑configured Western Force will field debutantes Zoe Elliott and Atawhai Hotene among four other changes as they seek their first grand‑final appearance. The semi‑final serves as a curtain‑raiser to the Wallabies‑Italy Nations Championship clash.

Both teams have already met this season, with the Waratahs edging the Force 28‑21 in their previous encounter.