Black Ferns Face Japan in Crucial Women’s Rugby World Cup Match

The Black Ferns are set to clash with Japan in a pivotal match during the Rugby World Cup pool play on the morning of March 15, 2025, in Exeter. This encounter marks the second match for the Black Ferns, who are looking to build on their successful opening against Spain.

In a strategic shift, the Black Ferns have made significant changes to their lineup, including the return of Kennedy Tukuafu from a knee injury. She will reclaim her position as openside flanker, leading a newly configured loose trio alongside Jorja Miller, who will start in the No 6 jersey, and Layla Sae, who takes on the No 8 role. This marks the first time this season that this combination will start together, with Miller making her inaugural test start in her new position.

The bench sees the inclusion of Kate Henwood, returning from an ankle injury, while changes in the backline see Braxton Sorensen-McGee move back to fullback after previously starting on the wing against Spain. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe will take her place in the starting lineup on the right wing, with Katelyn Vahaakolo stepping in for Ayesha Leti-I’iga, who is sidelined due to injury.

Black Ferns director of performance Allan Bunting expressed optimism about the team’s preparations, stating, “It’s great to have Kennedy and Kate back in the team. Their grit and determination to get to where they are, at a pinnacle event is a special moment not only for them but the entire squad.” Bunting acknowledged Japan’s competitive spirit, noting, “Japan played well last week, they are well-coached, and we expect them to come out and throw everything at us.”

The Black Ferns are aiming for a victory that would secure their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament. The bench will feature players such as Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, who played a crucial role in the last match against Spain, along with Renee Holmes and Theresa Setefano.

The complete starting lineup for the Black Ferns is as follows:
1. Chryss Viliko
2. Georgia Ponsonby
3. Tanya Kalounivale
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos
5. Alana Bremner (co-captain)
6. Jorja Miller
7. Kennedy Tukuafu
8. Layla Sae
9. Risaleaana Pouri-Lane
10. Ruahei Demant (co-captain)
11. Katelyn Vahaakolo
12. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt
13. Stacey Waaka
14. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee

Bench:
16. Atlanta Lolohea
17. Kate Henwood
18. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu
19. Laura Bayfield
20. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u
21. Maia Joseph
22. Renee Holmes
23. Theresa Setefano

As anticipation builds for the match, the Black Ferns are poised to display their strength and resilience against the Japanese team, which promises to be a thrilling encounter for rugby fans worldwide.