Anna 
Bree-Anna Browne’s progress at prop over the past six weeks has become one of the standout but often overlooked stories in the Reds’ preparations for their knockout semi-final against Fijian Drua in the SMARTECH Super Rugby Women’s competition.
The Reds have named their side for the crucial match, with co-captain Jemma Bemrose returning to the starting backrow after recovering from a minor leg muscle strain. Bemrose’s impressive defensive work rate (48 tackles) is second only to lock Tiarah Minns (69) at the Reds this season.
Zoe Hanna, after being named VPA Players’ Player of the Match following her standout performance against the Western Force, will return to an impact role from the bench.
For Wallaroo Browne, the 47-10 victory over the Force was a testament to how far she has come since her return from a 14-month recovery following ACL surgery. Browne showcased physicality, authority at scrum time, and strong ball-carrying skills, playing for nearly an hour on the field.
“After 14 months out following ACL surgery, it’s really exciting to feel you have come back this far to play in a semi-final with these girls,” Browne shared. “No matter how things are going on the field, we stretch each other and encourage one another to keep fighting. The support for each other, the spirit, the mood… it’s really positive. I feel the team is improving every week.”
Watching the 2024 season from the sidelines during her rehab confirmed that Browne prefers being on the field rather than as a spectator.
“It’s definitely difficult watching from the sidelines. It’s far better being able to have an influence on a game yourself and help set that good platform up front,” she said.
Browne is focused on her progress and takes it one step at a time.
“I’m happy with the way I’m progressing. If I get picked up for the Pacific Four series (with the Wallaroos), I’ll get better and better. That’s for later. Sunday is all I’m thinking about,” Browne added.
The Drua scrum proved to be a challenge in their last meeting in Lautoka early last month. However, the Reds managed to secure a superb 22-19 win despite the odds.
Sevens star Charlotte Caslick, who missed that match, will be a key player at fullback, bringing her skill and timing to the game. Her quick ball to Hanna, which led to a try against the Force, was a perfect example of her class.
Up front, Browne knows the challenge is to neutralize the Drua’s strong scrum.
“We know the Drua have the scrum to watch this season, so it’s up to us to make sure it’s not a strong suit,” Browne said.
Reds head coach Andrew Fraser praised Browne’s determination and resilience following her serious injury.
“Bree-Anna has come back from a very serious injury. It’s great to have her back and smiling. A weight seems to have lifted, and you can see the enjoyment she’s getting from the game again,” Fraser said.
With defensive urgency and technical skills at the breakdown, the Reds will also need to capitalize on their try-scoring opportunities in the semi-final. The match promises to be an exciting showcase of women’s rugby.
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