After suffering a historic first-ever loss to Canada last weekend, the Black Ferns are determined to return to winning ways when they face off against traditional rivals Australia in the first match of the two-test O’Reilly Cup series at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday.
The 22-19 defeat to Canada ended New Zealand’s perfect record against the North Americans and saw them drop to third in the world rankings for the first time. It was a sobering result for the professional Black Ferns against a mostly part-time Canadian side, especially after thrashing the same opposition 52-21 just 11 months ago.
In response, coach Allan Bunting has rung the changes, making seven alterations to his starting XV. Most notably, co-captain and playmaker Ruahei Demant has been demoted to the bench, with rookie Hannah King handed the No. 10 jersey. Star winger Ruby Tui has been left out of the matchday 23 entirely.
Bunting said the changes were about growing depth and giving fringe players an opportunity to prove themselves. “We have taken some critical learnings from our game against Canada,” he said. “This is now our opportunity to move on and take this next challenge against Australia.”
The Wallaroos, meanwhile, come into the match with their own point to prove. They are yet to record a win in the Pacific Four Series, falling to Canada (33-14) and the USA (32-25) in their opening two matches. A victory over New Zealand is crucial if they are to secure the third qualifying spot for the WXV 1 competition later this year.
Australia have never beaten the Black Ferns in 25 previous attempts, with their most recent meeting ending in a 50-0 drubbing. However, Wallaroos winger Maya Stewart believes the Kiwis are vulnerable after the Canada loss.
“It shows that every game is a Test match, and it’s not just a one-sided game,” Stewart said. “They’re going to be wounded, they’re going to be hurt, and I think it’d be great for us to climb on the back of that.”
Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp has made four changes to her starting side, with Cecilia Smith coming in at inside centre for her first match of the series. Lock Atasi Lafai and flanker Leilani Nathan also earn starts, while 17-year-old sensation Caitlyn Halse retains her spot at fullback after an impressive debut against the USA.
However, the Australians will have to cope without star forward Ashley Marsters after she suffered an ankle injury in the USA defeat.
For the Black Ferns, the match represents a chance to address some recurring issues that have plagued them in recent losses. Ill-discipline, a misfiring kicking game, and inexperience in key positions have all been identified as areas for improvement.
Assistant coach Steve Jackson described the Canada loss as a “wake-up call” and said the team was working hard to adapt. “Let’s not take anything away from Canada. They’re a good side, they put a lot of pressure on us,” he said.
Despite the fresh faces, the Black Ferns still boast a formidable core of experience, with the likes of Kennedy Simon, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, and Liana Mikaele-Tu’u all starting. The return of Renee Holmes at fullback and Alana Bremner in the second row will also bolster their chances.
With both teams desperate for a win for different reasons and the added spice of the trans-Tasman rivalry, Saturday’s clash promises to be a fascinating encounter. Can the Black Ferns bounce back and reassert their dominance, or will the Wallaroos make history with a maiden victory over their arch-rivals? All will be revealed at North Harbour Stadium.
Black Ferns: Renee Holmes, Mererangi Paul, Amy du Plessis, Sylvia Brunt, Katelyn Vahaakolo, Hannah King, Iritana Hohaia, Kaipo Olsen-Baker, Kennedy Simon (co-capt), Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Alana Bremner, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Amy Rule, Georgia Ponsonby, Chryss Viliko.
Reserves: Luka Connor, Marcelle Parkes, Aldora Itunu, Charmaine Smith, Layla Sae, Maia Joseph, Ruahei Demant (co-capt), Grace Steinmetz.
Australia: Caitlyn Halse, Maya Stewart, Georgina Friedrichs, Cecilia Smith, Desiree Miller, Arabella McKenzie, Samantha Wood, Piper Duck, Leilani Nathan, Siokapesi Palu, Atasi Lafai, Michaela Leonard (capt), Eva Karpani, Tania Naden, Brianna Hoy.
Reserves: Hera-Barb Malcolm Heke, Sally Fuesaina, Bridie O’Gorman, Kaitlan Leaney, Tabua Tuinakauvadra, Layne Morgan, Trilleen Pomare, Faitala Moleka.’
International7 days ago
International2 weeks ago
International2 weeks ago
International3 weeks ago
International5 days ago
International2 weeks ago
International2 weeks ago