The Black Ferns have named their squad to take on world No. 1-ranked England at Twickenham in London.
Black Ferns winger Ayesha Leti-I'iga is set to play in the black jersey for the first time since the 2021 Rugby World Cup final, returning from an ACL injury she picked up in July last year.
Black Ferns Director of Rugby Allan Bunting said they were lucky to be able to welcome back a few players from injury, including Leti-I’iga.
“Ayesha’s energy is contagious, she is lethal both sides of the ball, and has worked hard to be here. It will be awesome seeing her back out there,” said Bunting.
The winger's inclusion in the side pushes Ruby Tui to the bench.
This is set to be the 32nd time the Black Ferns have faced England with the Kiwis achieving 19 wins, 11 losses and drawing once.
The Black Ferns have struggled in recent years against the Red Roses, losing three out of their previous four encounters, their one win coming in the 2021 Rugby World Cup final. Their most recent match against England was a 33-12 loss at Mount Smart Stadium in the WXV1 competition.
The Red Roses beat France 38-19 last week, whereas the Black Ferns haven’t played since their 62-0 win over Australia in July.
The two teams have played three Tests at Twickenham, which boasts 82,000 seats, with England taking out each of the matches in 2009, 2011 and 2012.
The Black Ferns have already had a special trip to London, paying King Charles a visit yesterday.
Black Ferns team to play England
New Zealand v England at Twickenham, kick-off 1.30am Sunday NZT.
1. Chryss Viliko, 2. Georgia Ponsonby, 3. Tanya Kalounivale, 4. Alana Bremner, 5. Maiakawanakaulani Roos, 6. Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, 7. Kennedy Tukuafu (Co-Captain), 8. Kaipo Olsen-Baker, 9. Maia Joseph, 10. Hannah King, 11. Katelyn Vahaakolo, 12. Ruahei Demant, (Co-Captain), 13. Sylvia Brunt, 14. Ayesha Leti-I'iga, 15. Renee Holmes.
Reserves: 16. Atlanta Lolohea, 17. Kate Henwood, 18. Amy Rule, 19. Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, 20. Layla Sae, 21. Iritana Hohaia, 22. Amy du Plessis, 23. Ruby Tui.
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