women
international women
The Black Ferns will be forced to make several changes to their 23-man squad to face them France this weekend in Christchurch, after being dealt two blows.
Whitney Hansen’s side made a late surge at Whangarei’s Semenoff Stadium to overcome a resilient France side, who bounced back strongly after being dismantled by the Black Ferns in the first Test in Hamilton.
A strong combination and impact from Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Hannah King and Ayesha Leti-I’iga helped the Black Ferns clinch a series win over fourth-placed France, swinging the momentum after entering the second half.
But Hansen will be without halfback Tara Turner and Atalanta spinner Lolohee for the final Test match of 2026 at One New Zealand Christchurch Stadium.
Lolohea suffered an ankle injury during training in Whangarei last week, ruling her out of the second Test.
Substitute Holly Wratt-Groeneweg, who was called up after Lolohe’s injury, will remain in the squad as cover.
Turner, who enjoyed a homecoming on Saturday when she represented the Black Ferns in her home region of Northland, suffered concussion in the second half and will miss Christchurch’s Test.
Black Fern Ariana Bayler, who last represented Hansen’s side against, will replace the halfback Australia at Mt Smart Stadium in August.
She made her debut against halfback with nine Tests England in 2021, and had to wait just under three years for her latest cap, with her previous appearance coming before August 2023.
Although unconfirmed, Kaipo Olsen-Baker will no doubt be in contention to feature this weekend in Christchurch after being carried off with an ankle injury at half-time in Whangarei.
The latest injury update on Tuesday morning follows positive news of two Black Ferns receiving nominations for World Rugby awards.
Olsen-Baker and Elinor Plum-King were also nominated, Olsen-Baker for Women’s 15s Player of the Year and Plum-King for Women’s 15s Player of the Year.