[REVISION HISTORY]

Black Ferns and France WXV Global Series

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2026-10-24 05:51 UTC → 2026-10-25 10:11 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The New Zealand Black Ferns opened their three-test series against France in the Women XV Global Series with a dominant 81-12 victory in Hamilton. The match featured thirteen tries for New Zealand, including four from Shyrah Tuliau-Tua'a, while France faced significant absences from key players. Following the opening match, head coach Whitney Hansen announced 13 changes to the match-day squad for the second test in Whangārei. These adjustments included the return of Ruahei Demant to captaincy, the promotion of Shyrah Tuliau-Tua'a and Mererangi Paul to starting wing positions, and the inclusion of Laura Bayfield in the second row. Hansen emphasized that the team must focus on internal preparation, stating, “Our biggest pressure comes from within. It's about how we prepare, how we train and how we perform on the field, rather than chasing outcomes.” The Black Ferns secured a 31-12 victory in the second test at Semenoff Stadium. While France remained competitive for nearly an hour—taking an early lead through a try by Lazarko—the Black Ferns regained control in the second half. Mererangi Paul equalized in the 17th minute, and Tuliau-Tua'a scored in the 30th minute. Midfielder Sylvia Brunt noted the team’s increasing cohesion, remarking, “I think we are more connected than we have ever been.” ~~The two teams are scheduled to meet for a third test match~~ This second victory also marked the Black Ferns' 150th Test match. Despite France showing improved defensive organization and leading twice in ~~one week.~~ the first half, New Zealand's attacking depth, including performances by Mererangi Paul and teenager Braxton Sorensen-McGee, proved decisive in the second period.

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