Seven of our nib Blues players have been named in the 32-player Black Ferns squad for the Rugby World Cup 2021 (played in 2022). 

First-five eight, Ruahei Demant, was also bestowed the honour of co-captaining the national side for the tournament.

18-year-old midfielder, Sylvia Brunt, is the youngest player named in the squad and will be hoping to add to her four Test caps.

Black Ferns Director of Rugby Wayne Smith, who will attend his first women’s Rugby World Cup, but fifth overall, congratulated those selected.

“This is an incredibly special moment for the players selected and on behalf of the coaching group I want to congratulate all those named in today’s squad, it’s an exciting time not only for them but their whānau and wider communities as well,” said Smith.

“To compete at home in front of our whānau and fans will be exceptionally special for the players. In my experience, understanding the significance of the event is important but at the same time you need to be excited by that challenge. You can’t let the pressure overcome you or ignore it. It’s a fine balance. To play with freedom and joy in front of our own people is what we have been training for,” said Smith.

The Black Ferns will face Australia (8 October), Wales (16 October) and Scotland (22 October) in Pool A of the Rugby World Cup.

The seven nib Blues players named in the Black Ferns squad: Sylvia Brunt, Ruahei Demant (cc), Theresa Fitzpatrick, Charmaine McMenamin, Krystal Murray, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Liana Mikaele Tu’u.