You could not wipe the smile from Sheridan Gallagher’s face after Australia’s record-breaking win over Wales after running on in the 33rd minute to make her Jillaroo #187.
Only a few days earlier, Gallagher had been cheering the Jillaroos on from home, before receiving a call that would change her life from coach Jess Skinner.
Things quickly progressed and the Raiders fullback went from being an injury replacement in the extended squad for Julia Robinson (dislocated wrist) to being called into the team for Australia’s clash with Wales at CommBank Stadium.
“It's pretty crazy that 72 hours ago I was only called into camp and I got to play this weekend, so it's something pretty special,” Gallagher said.
It’s a strong finish to a year that saw Gallagher average 177 metres per game and break 34 tackles as she helped the Raiders to their maiden finals appearance.
Given her successful season, Gallagher – who was previously the captain of the Under 20 Young Matildas – was hopeful she could add to her international appearances.
“For sure, I think everyone who plays the game wants to wear their national team jersey and for me that was definitely a goal,” Gallagher said.
“It's pretty cool that I've been able to achieve it this year.
“I think it's pretty special to be able to play for Australia in two different codes and not too many people have done it in soccer and rugby league.
“I think it's something I'll cherish forever and probably something that won't really hit me until I retire one day.
Jaime Chapman 4th Try
“But it's definitely pretty cool.”
After the record-breaking 124-6 romp over Wales the defending champions turn their attention to a much sterner test in Sunday’s semi-final against the Fiji Bulikula.
With Skinner facing plenty of selection headaches, Gallagher was just happy to remain in the squad and soak in the experience of being around some first-class players.
“I think just to be around the girls that are in camp and just really learn off them and soak up as much as I can,” Gallagher said.
“To be able to play with the players like Tamika Upton, Tarryn Aiken, Isabelle Kelly, they're players I look up to, so it's been an awesome week.”
Match: Australia v Fiji
Semi Final -
home Team
Australia
1st Position
away Team
Fiji
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
- Tickets are currently on sale for both IRL Rugby League World Cup semi-finals via rlwc2026.com.
