3 minute read

The biggest names in the game will be on show in Paris as Australia’s women prepare to challenge for gold in the Women's Olympic Rugby Sevens competition.

While the men's tournament started before the opening ceremony in Paris, the women's competition will be held between 28th July and 30th July.

Here's everything you need to know about Australia's group, their fixtures and the odds of going all the way to claim the gold medal in the French capital.

Australia must earn quarter-final spot

Pool B in this Women's Olympic Rugby Sevens is arguably one of the tougher groups, with Australia set to face Ireland, Great Britain and South Africa in Paris.

However, given the talent in this Aussie side, they will certainly fancy their chances of finishing top of the pile after their three games.

Australia will kick-start their competition on 29th July at 00:00 (AEST) when they face South Africa at the Stade de France.

The Aussies are heavy favourites at 1.006 to claim the win, while South Africa are available at 29.00 to cause a major upset.

In the Line market, Australia are currently 1.90 with -28 points, such is the difference in quality between these two sides.

Coach Tim Walsh will then see his side face Great Britain in the early hours of 29th July, before facing Ireland in their final Pool B game.

Australia Women's Squad

Charlotte Caslick will captain of the women's team in what is set to be her third Olympic appearance alongside Sharni Smale.

Australia have had previous success in this competition, with Caslick and Smale part of the squad that claimed the first gold medal in this event back in 2016 in Rio de Janeiro.

This will be the last event for Smale before she retires from the sport and she will be determined to end her successful career on a high.

Bridget Clark, Teagan Levi, Isabella Nasser, Kaitlin Shave and Bienne Terita will all get their first taste of Olympic action in Paris.

Australia women's rugby sevens squad in full: Charlotte Caslick (captain), Sharni Smale, Bridget Clark, Dominique Du Toit, Tia Hinds, Maddison Levi, Teagan Levi, Isabella Nasser, Faith Nathan, Sariah Paki, Kaitlin Shave, Bienne Terita; Reserves: Kahli Henwood, Sidney Taylor.

Women's Olympic Rugby Sevens Odds

Reigning Olympic champions New Zealand are the favourites at 1.90 to reclaim gold in Paris but Australia are certainly expected to be in the mix.

Australia are 2.62 to take gold, while hosts France are 6.00 to be crowned champions this month.