Patu will be joined by Rebecca Clough (Western Australia) and Sarah Riordan (Queensland and ADF) as Vice Captains as Australia continues to finalise its preparation for the two Test series against New Zealand.

Wallaroo number 120, Patu has 20 Test caps to her name and has made a strong impression every time she has worn the gold jersey since her debut in 2014 against New Zealand.

Buildcorp Wallaroos Head Coach Dwayne Nestor said: “Liz is an excellent player and great leader amongst the group and I’m really looking forward to seeing her grow with the Captaincy of the Wallaroos.

“Liz’s work in the gold jersey speaks for itself and she is one of those tireless players that motors around the park all day.

“With great support from Rebecca, Sarah and the other leaders in the team, we have an excellent leadership group to take us forward in 2018.”

Buildcorp Wallaroos Captain, Liz Patu said: “I’m truly honoured to have been given this position and can’t wait to continue this great journey with the team.

“We’re building something special with this group and it’s a really exciting time with the clashes New Zealand over the next two weeks.”