New Zealand Army captain Laura Bayfield has made a remarkable transition from military service to elite rugby after receiving a call from Black Ferns head coach Allan Bunting. Bayfield, who debuted for the Black Ferns earlier this month against Australia’s Wallaroos, expressed her uncertainty about whether her performance would be enough to secure a spot on the team competing in the upcoming Rugby World Cup in England.

The selection process for the 32-member squad was highly competitive. Bayfield noted that players were informed last week that a call from Bunting would indicate non-selection. Instead, those receiving a call from defence coach Steve Jackson would be welcomed into the team.

“I was with my partner, Rikki, when my phone started ringing and Jacko’s name came up. I just looked at her and went, ‘Holy heck’,” said the 26-year-old lock from Canterbury and Matatū. The moment marked a significant milestone in her sports career, highlighting her growth as an athlete while balancing her military responsibilities.

Bayfield’s journey to the Black Ferns is a testament to her dedication and resilience. She joined the Army at 18, where she developed leadership skills and a strong work ethic that have translated into her rugby career. Her experience as an Army captain is seen as a unique advantage, fostering discipline and strategic thinking on the field.

In her debut match against the Wallaroos, Bayfield played for 25 minutes, demonstrating her pace, grit, and skill. Despite her initial apprehensions, her impactful presence helped solidify her standing within the team. As the Black Ferns prepare to defend their Rugby World Cup title, Bayfield’s journey serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring athletes but also to those navigating dual careers.

As the tournament approaches, the Black Ferns are focused on their training and strategy, aiming to maintain their championship status. With Bayfield now part of the squad, the team benefits from her unique perspective and skills honed in both the military and rugby environments.

Bayfield’s story reflects a broader narrative of athletes who come from diverse backgrounds, showcasing how life experiences can enrich sports teams. Her transition from the Army to international rugby highlights the potential for personal growth and achievement, regardless of the path taken.

As the Rugby World Cup kicks off next month, the Black Ferns, led by Bunting and bolstered by the talents of players like Laura Bayfield, are poised to make a significant impact on the global stage.

In a heartbreaking conclusion to the Euro 2025 final, Spain’s national team lost to England in a tense penalty shootout. The match, held at Wembley Stadium in London on July 7, 2025, ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, leading to the decisive shootout that saw England emerge victorious.

Aitana Bonmatí, who earned the prestigious title of Best Player of the tournament, expressed her disappointment in the aftermath of the match. “It feels surreal. We knew we were the best team here, and to lose like this is difficult to process,” she said, still visibly shaken by the outcome. Her performance throughout the tournament had been pivotal, helping Spain reach the final.

The match showcased the intensity and skill of both teams, with England’s resilient defense and Spain’s fluid attacking play keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Spain took the lead with a goal from Bonmatí in the first half, but England equalized shortly after the break, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

Bonmatí’s recognition as the tournament’s standout player highlights her influence on the field. Despite the disappointment, she remains optimistic about the future of Spanish football. “We have a young and talented squad, and this experience will only make us stronger,” she noted.

The final was not only a testament to individual talent but also a reflection of the growing competitiveness in women’s football. According to UEFA, the tournament attracted record viewership numbers, showcasing the increasing popularity of the women’s game.

As the dust settles on Euro 2025, Bonmatí and her teammates will regroup and look to build on their achievements. While the loss stings, their journey to the final has motivated a new generation of players and fans alike. The next steps for Spain will be crucial as they prepare for upcoming international competitions.

The impact of this tournament extends beyond the pitch, as discussions about investment in women’s football continue to gain momentum. With more resources and support, the potential for the sport to thrive globally is immense.

In her closing remarks, Bonmatí conveyed hope for the future, stating, “Football is about resilience, and we will come back stronger.” As Spain’s women’s team reflects on their Euro 2025 journey, the spirit of determination remains alive, promising exciting developments in the years to come.

The Otago Daily Times invites readers to challenge their knowledge with a quiz scheduled for July 28. This engaging activity aims to test both local and general knowledge, offering a fun way for participants to gauge their understanding of various topics.

Participate in the Challenge

The quiz is designed for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging a sense of community while promoting intellectual engagement. Participants can expect questions that span a range of subjects, from history and geography to current events and pop culture.

Local residents of Otago are particularly encouraged to participate, as the quiz will include questions relevant to the region, providing a unique opportunity to showcase local knowledge. Engaging with this quiz not only serves as entertainment but also fosters a deeper connection to the community and its heritage.

Why Take the Quiz?

Quizzes like this one offer more than just a test of knowledge; they also serve as a means of social interaction and friendly competition. Participants can compare scores with friends and family, creating an engaging atmosphere around learning and discovery.

Whether you’re a trivia buff or someone looking to expand your knowledge, the Otago Daily Times quiz on July 28 presents an enjoyable opportunity to challenge yourself. Join in and see how much you really know!

Liam Lawson delivered an impressive performance at the Belgian Grand Prix, finishing in eighth place and marking his third points finish of the 2025 Formula One season. The Kiwi driver outperformed his Racing Bulls teammate, Isack Hadjar, who struggled to make an impact during the race.

Lawson’s journey to the top was not without challenges. He qualified one position behind Hadjar but executed a crucial overtake at a pivotal moment as drivers transitioned from wet to slick tyres. This strategic move allowed Lawson to gain an advantage and prompted his team to pit him first. He seized the opportunity, securing four championship points as Hadjar fell behind, crossing the line last on the track.

Race Dynamics and Team Strategies

The Belgian Grand Prix showcased the intense competition within Red Bull Racing, particularly with speculation surrounding a potential future partnership between Lawson and Max Verstappen. Hadjar has not scored points in four consecutive races, a stark contrast to Lawson’s performance, which includes a career-best sixth place finish in Austria. The disparity in their results raises questions about Hadjar’s position in the team as Lawson continues to shine.

Lawson’s eighth-place finish at Spa-Francorchamps adds to his growing reputation in the sport. With Hadjar’s last notable finish being seventh in Spain, the pressure mounts as both drivers aim to solidify their roles within the team. The dynamics between the two teammates will be critical as the season progresses and opportunities for advancement arise.

As the Formula One season unfolds, Lawson’s consistent performance highlights his potential to rise within the ranks of Red Bull Racing, while Hadjar’s recent struggles may prompt a reassessment of his future with the team. The upcoming races will be crucial for both drivers as they seek to secure their positions and chase their championship ambitions.