Black Ferns named for World Cup
Three Manawatu players are off to the Rugby World Cup in Ireland next month with the Black Ferns.
Halfback Kristina Sue and flanker Sarah Goss will be going to their first World Cup, while for fullback Selica Winiata it will be her second, having gone in 2014 when the Black Ferns finished fifth.
Both Sue and Goss debuted last year, while Winiata has played 27 tests.
Outside back Janna Vaughan was in the squad for the June internationals, but missed out mainly because of the glut of outside backs in the team.
Black Ferns coach Glenn Moore has stuck with the tried and true for the World Cup.
Led by captain Fiao’o Faamausili , Moore’s team is a replica of the squad that was beaten by England in the fournation series with Canada and Australia last month at home.
The 28 players will travel to Ireland at the beginning of next month in the hope of becoming world champions again, and taking the spoils from defending champions England.
Moore said June’s series had provided the squad with muchneeded international competition in preparation.
The Black Ferns easily defeated Australia and Canada before losing the final match against England.
‘‘Everyone who’s been selected today deserves their spot. We have the right combination of players, many with lots of experience to draw on.
‘‘We know how tough the task ahead is and we are excited for the challenge."
‘‘We take nothing for granted and the players have been training hard all year, and have continued to play club rugby since the June
series finished to maintain match fitness. We are determined to do our fans, families and our country proud.’’