Black Ferns departing for the UK

The Black Ferns are departing for the UK and Ireland on Sunday night to play a three-Test series against England, Ireland and Canada.

The Black Ferns play three internationals in eight days. They play England at the Stoop, Twickenham on Saturday 19 November, Canada in Dublin on Wednesday 23 November and Ireland in Dublin on Sunday 27 November.

Counties Manukau loose forward Sharnita Woodman is the only uncapped player in the 27-women group that boasts 284 caps between them.

Head Coach Glenn Moore said the series against Australia had allowed the coaching team to give new players a go and to try combinations of players.

“We had a quick turnaround for the lead-up to the series and the team came together quickly. We face the same challenge in preparing for this series and the key for us will be how quickly we can adjust and settle into our offshore routine.

“Touring is always an exciting opportunity for players. It's a chance for us to see how players cope with the unique pressures of touring, and playing against nations that are clearly enjoying their rugby at the moment.

"We know that playing against the black jersey brings out the best in our opposition, but we know that these players are up for that challenge."

"Making the Black Ferns squad for the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year is everyone’s goal, so getting some game time against some tough opposition will be hugely valuable.  There is no doubt England, Canada and Ireland will be fired up – it’s going to be a fantastic few weeks of women’s rugby,” he said.   

The squad is:

Forwards
Aldora Itunu - Prop - Auckland
Aotearoa Mata'u - Prop - Counties Manukau
Toka Natua - Prop - Waikato
Aleisha Nelson - Prop - Auckland
Sosoli Talawadua - Prop - Waikato
Fiao'o Faamausili (capt) - Hooker Auckland
Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate - Hooker - Counties Manukau
Eloise Blackwell - Lock - Auckland
Charlene Gubb - Lock - Auckland
Charmaine Smith - Lock - North Harbour
Rawinia Everitt - Loose forward - Counties Manukau
Charmaine McMenamin - Loose forward - Auckland
Aroha Savage - Loose forward - Counties Manukau
Angie Sisifa - Loose forward - Otago
Sharnita Woodman * - Loose forward - Counties Manukau

Backs
Kendra Cocksedge - Halfback - Canterbury
Kristina Sue - Halfback - Manawatu
Kelly Brazier - First five-eighth - Otago
Kiritapu Demant - First five-eighth - Auckland
Chelsea Alley - Midfield back - North Harbour
Renee Wickliffe - Midfield back - Counties Manukau
Honey Hireme - Outside back - Waikato
Carla Hohepa - Outside back - Waikato
Janna Vaughan - Outside back - Manawatu
Selica Winiata - Outside back - Manawatu
Portia Woodman - Outside back - Counties Manukau
Hazel Tubic - Fullback - Counties Manukau
* denotes new cap