Italy’s women face Lebanon in a senior international at Lidcombe Oval, Sydney on Saturday 4 October (kick off 1pm local time). The match is part of a double header with the Italy and Lebanon men’s sides, who take the field at 3pm.

Italy women’s coach, Massimo Gregorio, commented: “Witnessing the girls proudly representing their heritage and families, understanding the sacrifices they have made to reach this point, is truly inspiring. This milestone signifies not only a significant achievement for the team but also highlights the importance of cultural pride and dedication in it“.

Gregorio has named Helensburgh Tigers’ Nikki Perugini as the inaugural skipper. “Pulling on the Italian jersey is about more than a game of rugby league, it’s about honouring those who came before us and inspiring the next generation of players to dream big,” she said. “We can’t wait to take the field for this historic match to showcase the passion, resilience and talent of our Italian women on the international stage.”

Lebanon women’s coach, Sam Sadat, noted: “I am extremely honoured and privileged to lead the Junipers again as we return to international rugby league. This represents an incredible opportunity for young Lebanese women to showcase their talent on the world stage and create a lasting legacy for our community. Our return marks a new chapter toward potential World Cup qualification in 2028.”

Italy
Amali Ahmet (All Saints Toongabbie), Kiara Barnes (Briars Rugby Union), Ashleigh Maiuri (Brisbane Tigers), Kayla Fleming (Burleigh Bears), Alyssa Gatellari (Emu Plains), Takira Gaspari, Sofia Osman (Gungahlin Bulls), Nikki Perugini (Helensburgh Tigers), Brandy Yallop (Northern Pride), Marissa Acquasanta, Rhiannon Gregorio, Brielle Luccitti, Deborah Wilson (Mounties), Josephine Lenaz (Parramatta Eels), Abbey Krzanic, Bronte Wilson (St George Dragons), Rebecca Pollard (Wests Tigers), Hanna Krzanic (Valley Diehards).

Lebanon
Kenzie Moujalli (All Saints Toongabbie Tigers), Monica Dann, Eleni El Azar (Cabramatta Rugby League), Amirah El-Abdallah, Namoe Gesa (Brisbane Tigers), Sienna Deeley,Taylor Moussa (Central Coast Roosters), Antoinette Doueihi, Debbie Doueihi (Parramatta Eels), Amira Hamid (Penshurst), Amal Dandan, Dalia Nabhan, Amelia Semrani, Myah Tumupu, Priscilla Younes (St George Dragons), Safa LaaLaa, Jamilee McGregor (St George Illawarra Dragons), Sienna Ibrahim (Souths Logan Magpies), Ebonie Moses (West Newcastle Rosella), Salma Nour (Wests Tigers).