The Black Ferns team selected to play South Africa has changed with news centre Amy du Plessis is out for the rest of the Rugby World Cup with a shoulder injury.
Just yesterday, it was announced that Amy du Plessis would return to play as an impact player against South Africa, but after training yesterday, she didn’t pass a physical assessment.
The 26-year-old from Christchurch was injured in the first match of the World Cup against Spain.
Outside back Katelyn Vahaakolo has got the call-up to join the bench as an impact player in her place.
Vahaakolo said she found out on Thursday UK time, and said it was a “privilege” to join the team but “bittersweet” because du Plessis is injured.
“She’s also from South Africa, so I think it would have been a really special moment for her, but I think it gives me even more of a reason to really represent her, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play again.”
The 25-year-old said the squad of 32 prepare every week like they’re playing, so she’s feeling ready.
“It’s hard for me to be really happy because I’m really gutted for Amy, but yeah, that’s how I’m feeling right now.”
Tony Christie said plans are being put in place for a replacement player to fly from New Zealand to join the Rugby World Cup defenders as they continue their campaign.
An update from the Black Ferns stated du Plessis will stay in the country with her whānau and continue rehabilitating her shoulder.
Before the first pool match against Spain, in which du Plessis started for the Black Ferns, she told 1News she was excited for her second World Cup. She played in the pool matches during the last World Cup in Auckland in 2022.
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