New mum Ella Sabljak returns to defend wheelchair rugby title in Brazil

Australia's Steelers opened their defence of the Wheelchair Rugby World Championship in São Paulo, bringing a mixed-gender roster that includes four female athletes. Among them, Ella Sabljak returned to international play less than a year after the birth of her daughter Billie, who now tags along to the team camp in a morale-building role. Sabljak explained that becoming a mother has given her a more disciplined mindset, prioritising any activity that adds value to her child's life.

Captain Chris Bond described the babies' presence as "refreshing" and said it humanises the squad, strengthening on-court connections. The team will contest five pool matches across four days, with the knockout stage slated to start Saturday morning Australian time. While the Steelers are the reigning champions, they aim to improve on a bronze finish at the 2024 Paralympics amid growing global competition.