NSW Waratahs lock Annabelle Codey is bracing for an emotional and intense clash against her former team, the Queensland Reds, in Round 3 of the Super Rugby Women’s competition this Sunday at Ballymore in Brisbane.
The match marks a significant moment for Codey, who will face off against familiar faces in what she describes as a “passionate and intense rivalry.”
“It means a lot. I’m really excited to go home and face my old club,” Codey told media.
“There’s always a lot of passion around this game, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Codey joined the NSW Waratahs Women ahead of the 2024 season and has been on both sides of this deep-rooted rivalry. She understands the Queensland Reds mindset and anticipates a highly competitive encounter.
“I haven’t been in the Reds’ locker room for a while now, so I can’t say exactly what they’re feeling,” she admitted.
“But I know they’ll definitely front up. It’s going to be a challenge, and I’m really excited to take them on.”
The NSW Waratahs Women head into this match with momentum after securing a commanding win at home over the Western Force at Allianz Stadium in Moore Park, Sydney last week.
The win was a crucial response to their Round 1 home loss to the Fijian Drua.
“We were obviously disappointed with our performance against the Drua,” Codey said.
“So, it was really important for us to rally around each other and bounce back.
“Last week was an improved performance, but there’s still work to be done, and we’re focused on putting in another strong showing this weekend.”
A subplot to this match is the impact of Australian Sevens players transitioning into the 15-a-side game such as Queensland Reds star Charlotte Caslick.
Codey welcomes their presence but remains focused on her own squad.
“It’s really exciting to have the Sevens girls in Super Rugby Women’s,” she said.
“It definitely bolsters the competition. But at the same time, our focus has been on us and putting our best foot forward.”
Sunday’s encounter will also see Codey square off against former teammates, adding an extra layer of competitiveness to an already fierce rivalry.
“There’s always a little bit of banter leading into the game,” she admitted.
“But once we step onto that field, we’re enemies for eighty minutes.”
Returning to Ballymore, a ground she once called home, is an exciting prospect for Codey.
“It means a lot to play at Ballymore again," Codey said.
"My friends and family will be there, and it’s always a great venue. But once we step onto the field, it’s all business.”
With the competition reaching new heights in 2025, Codey believes the increased intensity is a testament to the growth of women’s rugby in Australia.
“This is the most competitive Super Rugby Women’s season we’ve had,” she said.
“The standard is rising, and we’re seeing the depth build not only for Super Rugby but also for the Wallaroos.”
Despite their progress, Codey knows the NSW Waratahs Women have not yet reached their full potential.
“We’re always our own toughest critics,” Codey said.
“There are small aspects of our game that need improvement, and we haven’t put together a performance we’re completely proud of yet.
“But that’s also exciting because we know there’s more to come.”
With Sunday’s showdown with the Queensland Reds looming, the NSW Waratahs Women are ready to rise to the occasion in enemy territory.
“We know what we need to do. Hopefully, everything clicks this weekend, and we can deliver our best performance yet,” Codey said.
When: at 3.05 pm (AEDT) Sunday, 16 March 2025
Where: Ballymore, Brisbane, Queensland
The game will be televised Live, ad-free and on-demand on Stan Sport – The Home of Rugby
