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New Zealand’s influential co-captain Ruahei Demamt is back to full fitness in time for the tri-Test WXV Global Series clash with France, which starts this weekend in Hamilton.
The 2022 world rugby player, who injured her lower leg South Africa early last month, will be reintroduced to the international arena from the bench, with Hannah King retaining her starting spot for the time being after an impressive Northern Tour.
There is just one change to the starting attack from last month’s last-second defeat to England, with Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu coming into the second row for Laura Bayfield, who drops to the bench.
In the back line, Shyrah Tuliau-Tua’a will get her fourth chance in the black jersey as she takes up the right wing role that Mererangi Paul has impressed with so far this season. Paul is not completely out of Game 23, dropping to the bench as coach Whitney Hansen chases an 80-minute performance.
In the reserves, Vici-Rose Green and Ngano Tavake earned themselves significant roles after missing out on selection against England. Selections go to Atlanta Lolohee and Maddi Robinson.
“Building on our momentum England performance, we had to strike the right balance between providing opportunities for our newer Black Ferns and maintaining continuity and experience around them in order to succeed,” explained Hansen.
“We have made changes to who starts and finishes, which will be the focus of this campaign. Both are equally important, and we need players who can excel in each.”
“I also want to acknowledge Ruahea for the selflessness she showed and the significant role she played during our northern tour. I don’t think we would have had the same level of success as we did without her commitment to the development of those around her. We are excited to have her back on the field, leading and guiding our game.”
The Black Ferns will play against France
- Chryss Viliko (26)
- Georgia Ponsonby (45) – co-captain
- Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu (11)
- Maiakawanakaulani Roos (46)
- Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu (15)
- Liana Mikaele-Tutu (43)
- Elinor-Plum King (5)
- Kaipo Olsen-Baker (24)
- Maia Joseph (24)
- Hannah King (18)
- Ayesha Leti-I’iga (36)
- Logo-In-Door Lamp-Sylvia Brunt (36)
- Amy Du Plessis (29)
- Shyrah Tuliau – Tua’a (3) Free Mp3 Download
- Braxton Sorensen-McGee (14)
Reserves
16. Vici-Rose Green (9)
17. Gano Tavake (1)
Level 18 Santo (11)
19. Laura Bayfield (12)
20. Layla Sae (22)
21. Tara Turner (7)
22. Ruahei Demant (56) – co-captain
23. Fighting Paul (21)
Unavailable due to injury: Mia Anderson (concussion)