With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 fast approaching. The Black Ferns have taken a significant step in their preparations by naming a 33-player squad for key upcoming fixtures. Director of Performance Allan Bunting has confirmed the squad will first face rivals Australia in a high-stakes Test match in Wellington.
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Followed by an internal trial against the Black Ferns XV at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei. These matches are seen as critical opportunities to fine-tune combinations. Assess player readiness, and build cohesion ahead of the global tournament. As the reigning world champions continue shaping their path toward defending their crown.
Squad Selection Reflects Build-Up to Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
In a clear signal of intent ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Black Ferns Director of Performance Allan Bunting has unveiled a 33-strong squad for a vital July campaign. The selected players will feature in two major fixtures. A high-stakes Test against Australia at Sky Stadium in Wellington. And an internal trial match against the Black Ferns XV at Semenoff Stadium in Whangārei. These matches represent not just tune-ups but crucial auditions. As the reigning world champions aim to sharpen combinations. Evaluate player form, and solidify their game plan before the tournament kicks off in England.
Key Additions Signal Tactical Intent for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
Bunting’s squad shows both continuity and innovation. With four changes from the PAC4 campaign including the exciting inclusion of uncapped talents Laura Bayfield and Mia Anderson. Both forwards have impressed at domestic and development levels. And now have the opportunity to test themselves in a full international environment. Their inclusion reflects a broader strategy leading to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. To integrate new energy into the team while maintaining the standards and expectations that come with wearing the Black Ferns jersey. Also Read Women’s Rugby World Cup Expectant

Experience Returns to Anchor Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Preparations
The return of experienced backs Renee Holmes and Kelly Brazier brings stability and game management. To the backline as the Black Ferns intensify their Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 build-up. Holmes, known for her sharp counter-attacking skills and reliable kicking, rejoins the squad in top form. Brazier a long-serving dual-code veteran, adds invaluable vision at fly-half. Helping guides younger players and improve the team’s tactical kicking options. Alana Bremner, meanwhile, has been entrusted with co-captaincy alongside Ruahei Demant. Forming a leadership duo that blends forward drive and backline composure.
Bunting Stresses Depth and Competition Ahead of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
As the final countdown to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 begins. Bunting emphasized the fierce competition for places. Internal competition has been intense and selections are getting tougher he said. Highlighting the improved performances across the wider squad. Renee Holmes has earned her recall through hard work and evolution. While Kelly Brazier’s experience offers composure under pressure. Bunting praised Mia Anderson and Laura Bayfield for their relentless effort and consistency in training. And match play, making a strong case for their World Cup inclusion.
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Front Row Options Bolstered for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Campaign
Up front, the Black Ferns’ front row depth remains a point of strength heading into the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Loosehead props Chryss Viliko, Kate Henwood, and Awhina Tangen-Wainohu offer a range of scrummaging styles and work rates. Hookers Georgia Ponsonby and Atlanta Lolohea bring strong lineout execution and breakdown work. While Vici-Rose Green continues her development after earning her debut earlier this season. At tighthead, Amy Rule and Tanya Kalounivale provide powerful platforms. And young Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu looks to gain valuable experience in her second national call-up.
Lock and Loose Forward Combinations Tested for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
In the engine room, Allan Bunting has selected a balanced lock group with physical presence and athleticism. Maiakawanakaulani Roos remains a key lineout leader. While Alana and Chelsea Bremner contribute work ethic and communication in tight spaces. Newcomer Laura Bayfield, an imposing figure from Canterbury. It will be eager to seize her first cap. The loose forward trio features Liana Mikaele-Tu’u’s dynamic carries. Layla Sae’s defensive steel, Jorja Miller’s sevens flair, and Mia Anderson’s all-around grit. These selections reflect the coaching staff’s aim to build versatile and adaptive back-row units for the challenges ahead.
Halfback Depth Adds Energy and Control
In the halfback department, the selection of Maia Joseph and Iritana Hohaia ensures tactical flexibility and speed of service at the base. Joseph has shown composure under pressure in recent Test matches. While Hohaia brings a more aggressive running threat around the fringes. Sevens convert Risaleaana Pouri-Lane adds another dimension with her quick decision-making and agility in broken play. This trio will be closely observed during the July fixtures as Bunting evaluates who can best dictate tempo on the big stage.

Playmakers Blend Youth and Experience
At first five-eighth, Ruahei Demant continues her role as a calm, intelligent leader. Directing play with clarity and control. She is supported by rising talent Hannah King, who brings a fearless attitude and expanding skillset after a solid campaign with Matatū. The return of Kelly Brazier offers the team a seasoned strategist who has excelled across both XVs and sevens formats. Her ability to slot in at both 10 and 12 gives the squad greater tactical depth and variety.
Midfield Unit Packed with Power and Precision
The midfield options present a rich blend of physicality and finesse. Sylvia Brunt is emerging as a dominant ball-carrier with excellent spatial awareness. While Amy du Plessis continues to be a dependable defensive organizer. Stacey Waaka and Theresa Setefano, both proven sevens stars. Bring explosive speed and versatility that can stretch defences and create space for the outside backs. This unit gives the Black Ferns an adaptable centre pairing capable of both absorbing pressure and launching quick transitions.
Outside Backs Ready to Light Up July Fixtures
Pace and finishing class define the Black Ferns’ outside back selections. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe returns as one of the most feared runners in world rugby. While Ayesha Leti-I’iga and Katelyn Vahaakolo provide further strike power on the wings. Renee Holmes, with her goal-kicking and counter-attack capabilities. Adds a composed presence at fullback. Braxton Sorensen-McGee, still only 18, continues to impress with her pace. Strength, and work ethic—marking her as a future star in the making.
Injuries Open Doors for Emerging Talent
The squad’s depth will be tested, as several experienced names have been ruled out due to injury. Kaipo Olsen-Baker. Kennedy Tukuafu, Mererangi Paul, Ariana Bayler, Alena Saili, and Santo Taumata are all unavailable for selection this month. Their absence is a blow to the squad’s continuity, but it also allows emerging players like Anderson. Bayfield, and Sorensen-McGee to gain valuable minutes. The coaching team will be watching closely to see who seizes the opportunity and makes a late case for World Cup inclusion.
Critical Tests Ahead as Final Squad Decision Looms
The July fixtures will serve as the final proving ground before the World Cup squad is officially named on July 25. The internal trial on July 5 will test squad cohesion. While the Australia Test on July 12 will simulate tournament-level pressure. With the squad set to travel to England on August 13. These matches will shape the final selection and give the team one last chance to gel before facing the world’s best. Both games will be broadcast live. With highlights available via NZR+, ensuring fans can follow every key moment of the journey.

Eticketing.co gives football supporters the opportunity to buy Women Rugby World Cup 2025 Tickets at unbeatable prices. Fans can take advantage of exclusive offers, ensuring they reserve their seats for the most important match of the year without straining their budget. Enjoy a streamlined ticket-buying experience and feel the excitement of the final showdown with us.