Black Ferns vs USA: Three Players Set for Debut in Sacramento

The Black Ferns are gearing up for their opening match of the year against USA in the Pacific Four Series at Heart Health Park, Sacramento. The match is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, with a 4.00pm PST kick-off (Sunday, April 12, 11.00am NZT).

Three Players Set for Black Ferns vs USA Debut

The coaching group has selected their first match-day 23, which includes three exciting potential debutants. Loose forward Mia Anderson, halfback Tara Turner, and winger Justine McGregor are all in line to make their Black Ferns debuts off the bench in the Black Ferns vs USA encounter.

Head Coach Whitney Hansen expressed her pleasure with the progress of the newcomers, stating: “It’s exciting to reward our debutants with the opportunity to wear the black jersey for the first time. They’ve shown determination and resilience throughout their respective journeys.”

Historic Milestone for Ruahei Demant

Saturday will also mark a historic moment for co-captain Ruahei Demant. She is set to become the most capped Black Ferns captain with 36 Tests, surpassing the legendary Fiao’o Fa’amausili. “The leadership she offers to this team is immense,” Hansen added. Alongside her, Chryss Viliko will celebrate her 20th Test milestone.

Starting XV and Team Lineup

In the starting XV, Chryss Viliko joins Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu and Georgia Ponsonby in the front row. The backs feature a formidable combination of Amy Du’Plessis and Sylvia Brunt in the midfield, while Ayesha Leti-I’iga and Mererangi Paul bring pace to the wings for the Black Ferns vs USA clash.

Black Ferns v USA (Match-Day 23)

Chryss Viliko (19 caps)
Georgia Ponsonby (37 caps)
Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu (3 caps)
Maiakawanakaulani Roos (38 caps)
Laura Bayfield (6 caps)
Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (35 caps)
Kennedy Tukuafu (34 caps) – co-captain
Kaipo Olsen-Baker (16 caps)
Maia Joseph (16 caps)
Ruahei Demant (51 caps) – co-captain
Ayesha Leti-I’iga (30 caps)
Sylvia Brunt (29 caps)
Amy Du’Plessis (22 caps)
Mererangi Paul (14 caps)
Renee Holmes (29 caps)
Reserves: Vici-Rose Green, Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, Tanya Kalounivale, Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, Mia Anderson*, Tara Turner*, Hannah King, Justine McGregor*.