Head Coach Whitney Hansen and her coaching staff have officially announced a powerful 31-player squad for the remainder of the 2026 international season. Consequently, this updated Black Ferns squad 2026 lineup features nine total changes from the Pacific Four Series roster, including five exciting uncapped players who earned call-ups following stellar Sky Super Rugby Aupiki performances.
Five Uncapped Stars Earn National Call-Ups
The coaching panel selected five potential debutants after consistent form across domestic competitions. Loosehead prop Ngano Tavake, lock Amarante Sititi, and loose forward Elinor-Plum King strengthen the forward pack. Meanwhile, outside backs Maia Davis and Shyrah Tuliau-Tua’a bring electric pace to the backline options.
Additionally, the squad welcomes back prop Santo Taumata, who was part of the Rugby World Cup 2022 winning campaign. Centre Alena Saili also returns to the national setup for the first time since 2018. Furthermore, loose forward Layla Sae completes an inspirational comeback following a full recovery from an ACL injury.
“This squad has an exciting blend of experience and emerging talent. Finding the right balance was a key part of our selection process,” noted Head Coach Whitney Hansen during the squad announcement.
Co-Captains and Key Absentees
Veterans Ruahei Demant and Kennedy Tukuafu continue as co-captains. However, Tukuafu (hamstring) and Jaymie Kolose (ankle) remain unavailable for selection due to injuries. Furthermore, stars Renee Holmes and Katelyn Vahaakolo are currently committed to the national Sevens program.
Full 31-Player Black Ferns Squad 2026 Roster
Here is the official squad selected for the upcoming international tour:
- Loosehead Props: Chryss Viliko, Maddison Robinson, Ngano Tavake*.
- Hookers: Vici-Rose Green, Atlanta Lolohea, Georgia Ponsonby.
- Tighthead Props: Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Mo’omo’oga Palu, Santo Taumata.
- Locks: Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Laura Bayfield, Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, Amarante Sititi*.
- Loose Forwards: Mia Anderson, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Kaipo Olsen-Baker, Elinor-Plum King*, Layla Sae.
- Halfbacks: Maia Joseph, Tara Turner.
- First-Five Eighths: Ruahei Demant (Co-Captain), Hannah King.
- Midfielders: Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt, Justine McGregor, Amy Du Plessis, Alena Saili.
- Outside Backs: Maia Davis*, Ayesha Leti-I’iga, Mererangi Paul, Braxton Sorensen-McGee, Shyrah Tuliau-Tua’a*. (*denotes uncapped player)
Upcoming Fixtures and Schedule
The team convenes in Wellington this week to begin preparations before facing the Black Ferns XV and rival Australia in the O’Reilly Cup in Auckland. Later this year, they will also compete against South Africa and in the global WXV Series.
Are you eager to follow every match live? Check out our complete All Blacks 2026 Schedule page for upcoming fixtures. For fans planning to watch the games live in stadium, visit our All Blacks 2026 Tickets Guide. Stay up to date with daily updates on our Rugby News Hub, and follow live standings on World Rugby.