Black Ferns build-up for World Cup underway in Pacific Series

The Black Ferns open their 2022 season in Tauranga tomorrow against the world No 6 ranked Australian Wallaroos with a new coach at the helm.

Ruby Tui will debut for the Black Ferns.
Photo: Photosport

Coach Wayne Smith takes over for the Pacific Four Series, with New Zealand taking on Australia, and Canada playing the United States.

Ruahei Demant will captain the side while Kendra Cocksedge becomes the most capped Black Fern of all time in her 58th test.

Among the seven debutants will be sevens star Ruby Tui on the wing, who makes the switch after a decorated career in rugby sevens with Olympic gold and numerous world sevens series titles to her name.

She says she’s looking forward to the new challenge.

“Just the way life works the stars align sometimes, ” said Tui.

“I’m over the moon. I honestly didn’t know if this was ever going to happen in my career.

“I played sevens for a long time – and no regrets there.”

Australian coach Jay Tergonning has named 14 players from New South Wales in the Wallaroos side to face New Zealand.

The No 2-ranked Black Ferns and No 6-ranked Australians are building combinations towards the Rugby World Cup in October, with the Black Ferns playing their first test at home in almost three years.

The game kicks off at the Tauranga Domain at 2:45 tomorrow afternoon, preceded by No 3-ranked Canada versus No 7-ranked USA Eagles.

-RNZ