Doing her bit to promote women’s game

Sera Naiqama is leaving the game in a better place than she found it.

The Wallaroos lock has been key for the NSW Waratahs and crossed the ditch to join Matatu this season to expand her game, passing on her knowledge.

She is also a prominent figure in the sport off the field, working in commentary and broadcasting for Australia’s Stan Sport, and their are big reasons driving her: exposure and visibility for women.

"For me, I would love to see that by the time that Australia host the World Cup that there is an all-female [commentary] panel," Naiqama told the Otago Daily Times.

"I believe that New Zealand did it extremely well [at last year’s World Cup]. It’s about visibility and exposure, and all of the girls that play the game at this level in front of a camera, but speaking on a game as well."

She had the luxury of both roles — her commentary raised her awareness of the game as a player — but appreciated that when she stepped on to the field, she was just a player.

That exposure as a player is on the rise, with the inaugural WXV competition being played across three tiers, which brought her to Dunedin this week for the Wallaroos’ clash against France tomorrow. WXV 2 and 3, played in South Africa and Dubai, provided lower tiered nations a chance, she said.

"Dare I say, Australia’s probably part of it and we’re just in a really privileged position because of our other performances to be in this top tier.

"To have more test matches means that the world stage becomes more competitive and that’s kind of what you want for the game."

The Wallaroos lost 42-7 to the Red Roses last weekend, but they were competitive, competed in the right spaces and just lacked execution in stringing together phases.

But Naiqama was proud of how the side was building.

"We know that to be the best, we need to play the best, and that’s the opportunity we have being right now in New Zealand.

"In terms of our team’s cohesion, and our execution, it is getting better.

"The tide will turn and as a group, we’re patient and we know that it’s coming."

They worked on tightening their lineout, touches across the park and adapting to playing among the noise under the roof this week.

Having made her debut for Matatu at Forsyth Barr Stadium, Naiqama said having that familiarity relieved the pressure in her preparation for France, where she will start at lock.

"It’s genuinely one of the best stadiums I’ve played in."

She relished her time at Matatu — a big drawcard being able to pack down behind World Cup front rowers Pip Love, Amy Rule and Georgia Ponsonby — and it helped change her perception on the game.

"I think know that I have a bit of familiarity with New Zealand rugby being here and playing it, I would say I don’t fear it as much as I once did."