Black Ferns Gear Up for Crucial Match Against Japan in World Cup

The Black Ferns have announced their lineup for a significant match against Japan in the second round of the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Exeter on Monday, New Zealand time. Notably, loose forward Kennedy Tukuafu will make her return to the test arena, having last played against the USA during the 2025 Pacific Four Series. While Tukuafu remains co-captain, Alana Bremner and Ruahei Demant will lead the squad once more.

In addition to Tukuafu, prop Kate Henwood also returns from an ankle injury, marking her World Cup debut. She will be joined by teammates Katelyn Vahaakolo, Atlanta Lolohea, Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu, and Maia Joseph. The match presents an opportunity for Portia Woodman-Wickliffe to potentially become New Zealand’s all-time top try scorer if she manages to score against Japan.

Black Ferns director of performance Allan Bunting expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness and focus. “It’s awesome to be here in Exeter and we have had a focused week of preparations. 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 for not only them but the entire squad,” Bunting said.

Looking ahead to the match, Bunting noted Japan’s strong performance in their previous game, despite a 42-14 loss to Ireland. “Japan played well last week, they are well-coached, and we expect them to come out and throw everything at us. We’ve selected a team who we believe will rise to the occasion,” he added.

The Black Ferns enter this match after a commanding victory over Spain, winning 54-8 in their opening match of the tournament. This sets the stage for an exciting encounter as both teams seek to solidify their standings in the competition.

The full lineup for the Black Ferns against Japan is as follows:

1. Chryss Viliko (14 caps)
2. Georgia Ponsonby (32 caps)
3. Tanya Kalounivale (23 caps)
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (33 caps)
5. Alana Bremner (30 caps) – Co-captain
6. Jorja Miller (3 caps)
7. Kennedy Tukuafu (30 caps)
8. Layla Sae (15 caps)
9. Risaleaana Pouri-Lane (3 caps)
10. Ruahei Demant (46 caps) – Co-captain
11. Katelyn Vahaakolo (17 caps)
12. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt (25 caps)
13. Stacey Waaka (27 caps)
14. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (29 caps)
15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee (4 caps)

Reserves:
16. Atlanta Lolohea (7 caps)
17. Kate Henwood (10 caps)
18. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu (1 cap)
19. Laura Bayfield (2 caps)
20. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (30 caps)
21. Maia Joseph (11 caps)
22. Renee Holmes (24 caps)
23. Theresa Setefano (20 caps)

As anticipation builds for this pivotal match, the Black Ferns aim to build on their momentum and secure another victory in their World Cup campaign.