Schoolgirl Shalom Sauaso has been promoted to the starting side for the Queensland Reds’ clash against the Western Force on Saturday in Buildcorp Super Rugby Women’s. 

The 16-year-old from Ipswich State High School made an instant impact on debut off the bench against the Fijian Drua last Sunday with a storming run by three defenders to the tryline. 

Sauaso has been named on the wing for Saturday afternoon’s 4.05pm AEST match at Perth’s HBF Park, the first leg of a double-header with the Reds-Force to follow in Super Rugby Pacific.

She’ll have the comfort of six Wallaroos in the backline around her, including outside centre Alana Elisaia, who is returning from suspension. 

Reds head coach Grant Anderson said a spot in the side had to be found for the youngest member of the Reds squad after her debut. 

“In the 30 or so minutes that Shalom played against the Drua, she showed a real maturity and made some strong carries with excellent post-contact metres. We’re keen to see her start,” Anderson said. 

“Caitlin (Urwin) had a very good game herself and she’ll be used off the bench this week.

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A beaming Sauso was wearing numerous lolly leis around her neck post-match, a show of celebration from family and friends in Pasifika culture. 

“I’ll never forget that feeling (when scoring the try). To get around the girls who have helped me learn this code made the moment even more special,” Sauaso said. 

“I’m super-grateful for the opportunity the Reds have given me. Honestly, it’s one of my biggest achievements so far.

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