Maia Joseph, the talented Otago halfback, could be on the brink of a remarkable turnaround as the Black Ferns gear up to face Canada in Christchurch tomorrow. Joseph has been named as the starting halfback in a rematch of the game where Canada clinched their first victory over the Black Ferns last year in the same city.
Amy Rule, the Matatu prop, makes a return to the starting lineup at tighthead after a stellar performance off the bench in the previous match against Australia. She joins her Super Rugby Aupiki teammates – Georgia Ponsonby, Alana Bremner, and Amy du Plessis – in the starting XV.
Kaipo Olsen-Baker moves to the bench, while Hannah King will once again provide impact from the reserves. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u takes Olsen-Baker’s place in the back row, and Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is set to make her comeback on the right wing after her unfortunate exit in the 2022 Rugby World Cup final due to injury.
Braxton Sorensen-McGee, the exciting 18-year-old, retains her spot at fullback after an impressive debut performance, while Ayseha Leti-I’iga shifts to the left wing, with Katelyn Vahaakolo omitted from the matchday squad.
Coach Allan Bunting has chosen not to include any of the sevens players who recently joined the squad. However, the return of Woodman-Wickliffe to the international stage promises to be a memorable moment in what is expected to be a fiercely contested game.
“I’m thrilled for Portia as she represents her country once again in front of her loved ones,” Bunting expressed. “It’s a special occasion for her, and her dedication to our team environment is truly inspiring. Her commitment to self-improvement is truly infectious.”
Canada, currently ranked second in the world, stunned the Black Ferns with a victory in Christchurch last year during the Pacific Four tournament. They head into this match following a 26-14 win over the United States, while the Black Ferns, ranked third globally, triumphed over the Wallaroos 38-12 in their previous encounter.
“Our performance last week was a positive step forward, and we are eager to build on that momentum against a formidable Canadian side,” Bunting remarked. “We are excited to compete in our first home test.”
Canada will be without their captain Sophie de Goede, the influential No 8 and goal kicker, who is recovering from an ACL injury. The team will be led by Alex Tessier at second five-eighth.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3.35pm.
