Skipper eyes fifth World Cup
‘‘You are as young as you play and I have been told I run around the field like a 21-yearold.’’ Black Ferns captain Fiao’o Fa’amausili
It’s a feat that even Richie McCaw couldn’t accomplish – but Black Ferns captain Fiao’o Fa’amausili is fast approaching her fifth Rugby World Cup of her career.
Making her debut for the Black Ferns in 2002 at age 21, Fa’amausili has over 15 years experience and she’s not scared of a little competition.
Having won three of her four previous World Cups, the 36-yearold is the definition of a seasoned pro and is likely to make a big impact for her team when they line up in Ireland next month.
‘‘I never thought that I would get to play in five World Cups.
‘‘I think one World Cup was special for me, two was a bonus. Every one since has been a bonus and I am proud to still be playing and loving the game,’’ she said.
While Fa’amausili has been part of four campaigns, she has only played in one successful World Cup final in 2010. In 2002 and 2006 Fa’amausili was so junior she sat on the bench for the titles.
When the Black Ferns bowed out early of the last World Cup in France, Fa’amausili vowed she would graft away for another three years so she could end on a high note.
It means a lot is riding on next month’s tournament for the captain.
‘‘When they mentioned it was only three years away I was sold on that. It was less for the body.’’
Just as some questioned Lions captain Sam Warburton’s place in the recent series against the All Blacks, an experienced leader can often be weathered and slower off the mark than their fittest team mates.
Fa’amausili’s answer to anyone questioning her presence is ‘‘you are as young as you play and I have been told I run around the field like a 21-year-old.’’
‘‘The body is feeling good. I can’t believe how many battles it’s gone through now,’’ said the 47-test veteran.
In one and a half decades of international rugby, she sat out one full season in 2004-05. She doesn’t feel old and, if anything, feels fitter than when she began 15 years ago.
Losing the June series to England in the final match, the Black Ferns took away some harsh lessons, but they have refocused.
The Black Ferns’ opening match is against Wales on August 10 before they face Hong Kong and Canada in pool play.
‘‘We have played Canada a few times recently so we know they have a strong pack and are well drilled.
‘‘They have been constantly improving so will be a big challenge. I don’t know much about Wales but they have been improving with more international play in the Six Nations.
Clearly, defending champions England are the biggest threat for the Black Ferns.
‘‘They’re looking strong and been together pretty much the whole year. It’s good for them, but it gives us some extra fighting power.
‘‘We breathe this sport in New Zealand and we [the Black Ferns] are juggling it with full time jobs.
‘‘For us it is just building on each game. If we do our job well in the three pool games we might come up against them in the semifinals or final. With England we have to make sure to shut them down early – particularly up front.’’
Her advice to the younger girls in the side after four World Cups was to ‘‘stay calm’’.
‘‘We are here for a reason, we’ve all been picked for a reason. To believe is the main thing and when in doubt just go forward.’’