Wallaroos captain Siokapesi Palu and veteran Lori Cramer are among the latest crop of re-signings for Rugby Australia ahead of the 2026 international season.
The pair join Queensland prop Bree-Anna Browne and NSW back-rower Ruby Anderson in re-committing to the national program.
Palu took over the captaincy in 2025, playing in five Test matches before a foot injury threatened her World Cup campaign.
However, a vigorous rehab program saw the Rockdale Rangers junior return during the recent tournament and lead the side in the final two matches against England and Canada.
“Pesi’s leadership was outstanding both on and off the field as captain in 2025,” General Manager of Women’s Rugby Jilly Collins said.
“She not only inspired the team but also demonstrated immense resilience by overcoming a serious foot injury late in the season to compete at the World Cup.
“Her return truly embodied the spirit of a leader.”
Cramer re-signs in a boost for the squad with her leadership a key acquisition for the Wallaroos after making her debut in 2019.
The Queenslander is one of the most experienced players in the squad with 31 caps while she remains the highest point-scorer in Wallaroos history.
“Lori is one of our most experienced and influential players, bringing invaluable leadership and insight to the squad,” Collins said.
“It is also exciting that Lori will be concurrently pursuing new opportunities overseas, a development we are fully supportive of.
“We hope that Lori has a long and influential involvement in Australian rugby and continues to help drive the development of the women’s game.”
Browne’s journey back from an ACL injury has been hugely admired with the serving army corporal making a return to the field for the Wallaroos in May.
Despite not being named to play during the World Cup, Browne’s perseverance has had a lasting effect on the squad.
“Bree-Anna made a successful return to the field this year following an 18-month layoff due to an ACL injury, featuring four times for the Wallaroos,” Collins said.
“She has been a valuable contributor to the team's efforts throughout the season, and her re-signing is fantastic news.”
Anderson made her international debut for the Wallaroos against the USA in May, becoming the youngest-ever forward to represent Australia.
The NSW Central Coast product grew up playing rugby with her brothers and friends before joining Sydney University in her first senior women's competition.
“Ruby’s developing skill set is impressive for a player her age,” Collins said.
“After already becoming the youngest-ever Wallaroos forward to debut during the Pacific Four series, we are excited about her future and confident she will continue to grow into a key player for the Rugby World Cup 2029.”
The Wallaroos are in a contracting period for 2026 with an extended squad to gather for an end-of-year training camp in Sydney next week.
