North Melbourne star Jasmine Garner has been named captain of the Australian side for the 2026 NAB AFLW Australia v Ireland match at North Sydney Oval.

The eight-time All-Australian and four-time Club Champion took over the Kangaroos' captaincy from inaugural leader Emma Kearney ahead of the 2025 season.

North Melbourne coach Darren Crocker, who will coach Australia in the representative game, revealed the news to Garner at Arden St.

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Crocker breaks the news to Australia's new captain, Jas Garner

Kangaroos captain Jas Garner learns she will captain Australia in the AFLW representative game against Ireland

 This latest honour comes after her North Melbourne teammates selected her to again lead the reigning premiers in 2026.

Garner is one of eight Kangaroos selected for the representative clash. She will feature alongside Australian teammates Ash Riddell, Libby Birch and Tahlia Randall, while North Melbourne's Vikki Wall, Erika O’Shea, Blaithin Bogue and Amy Gavin Mangan will line up for Ireland.

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Can our captain's brother guess the players' voices?

Can Jasmine Garner's brother Kane pick the Kangaroos from just their voices?

Brisbane Lions star Orla O’Dwyer has been named captain of the Irish side for the sold-out clash on August 1.

Garner said she was honoured to lead her country.

"To captain the Australian team is a massive honour and something I’m incredibly proud of," Garner said.

"To be named to play for Australia is one thing, but to be entrusted with the captaincy is another. 

"We’ve got a fantastic group of players coming together from across the competition, and I’m really excited to lead them out there."

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