5 Black Ferns to watch ahead of the Women Rugby World Cup

New Zealand has announced its lineup for the 2025 Women Rugby World Cup, and it’s packed with elite talent. From returning Black Ferns icons to emerging pillars of the jersey. Head coach Allan Bunting has curated a formidable 33-player group for the upcoming event across England. New Zealand arrives at the competition chasing a third straight.

Secure your Women Rugby World Cup Tickets at eticketing.co! Be part of the action as the world’s best women’s rugby teams compete for glory. Don’t miss the excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Grab your WRWC 2025 Tickets now and witness history in the making!

New Zealand vs Japan Tickets | Women Rugby World Cup Tickets | Women Rugby World Cup 2025 Tickets

Women’s Rugby World Cup crown, following their 2017 success in Belfast. And their 2022 pandemic-delayed victory on home turf at Eden Park. The Black Ferns defeated England in both of those finals and boast six Women’s Rugby World Cup trophies in total. Four more than second-placed England’s Red Roses.

The Black Ferns step into the tournament as possible frontrunners, alongside traditional World Cup foes England. And fast-developing sides from France and Canada. In this piece, we highlight five of the biggest stars from the Black Ferns squad. That you should be watching closely throughout England. Few athletes in world rugby represent leadership.

Women Rugby World Cup Tickets: The Black Ferns' Backbone in the Loose Trio

And perseverance, quite like Kennedy Tukuafu (previously known as Kennedy Simon). Now co-skipper of the Black Ferns with Ruahei Demant, the energetic loose forward brings unmatched grit to the New Zealand forwards and a composed, steady presence away from the field. Able to operate in all three loose forward roles.

WRWC Tickets | WRWC 2025 Tickets | England Women Rugby World Cup Tickets

Tukuafu’s path to the elite level is just as remarkable as her game-day impact. From a formative spell in club rugby in Sapporo, Japan, where she once considered switching national teams, to raising the World Cup in 2022 and steering Chiefs Manawa to domestic victory, her story is one of bold choices and relentless pursuit.

Tukuafu earned her test cap in 2019 and has since gained over 30 international appearances for the Black Ferns, becoming a core figure in the team's culture and leadership. She was awarded New Zealand Rugby’s Player of the Year in 2020, a tribute to her steady excellence at both the international level and in the Farah Palmer Cup, where she has long starred for Waikato.

Grab YourEngland Women Rugby World Cup Tickets Now at eticketing.co! Experience the thrill of the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 as two powerhouse teams collide. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action, get your tickets today!

Women Rugby World Cup 2025 Tickets: A Leader with Deep Cultural Ties

Raised in Hamilton and a proud graduate of Hamilton Girls’ High School’s famed First XV, Tukuafu credits much of her early growth to coach and guide Crystal Kaua, who helped instill the grit and mental sharpness that now define her play. Away from rugby, Tukuafu’s modesty and strong values stand out as clearly as her physical dominance.

Named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2023 for her contributions to rugby, she remains closely tied to her heritage, proudly representing her Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāti Māhanga ancestry. Expect her to lead boldly, hit hard in tackles, carry the ball with force, and uplift those around her. A natural warrior and seasoned leader.

Women Rugby World Cup Quater Final Tickets | Women Rugby World Cup Final Tickets

Kennedy Tukuafu is among the key drivers for the Black Ferns as New Zealand aims to defend its Women’s Rugby World Cup crown. She was the leading points scorer at the 2010 Rugby World Cup and delivered the decisive penalty kick in the final against England. Her rugby intelligence, accurate goal-kicking, and explosive pace made her a perfect addition to the Black Ferns Sevens.

Buy New Zealand vs Japan Tickets at eticketing.co! Get ready for an epic rugby experience as the world’s top women’s teams battle it out for the coveted title. Be there to cheer on your favourites and enjoy thrilling matches. Purchase your WRWC Tickets today and be part of the action!

WRWC 2025 Tickets: Black Ferns Sevens Culture Builder

When the pro circuit kicked off in 2012. With gold medals from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, 2018 Commonwealth Games, and several World Series titles, Brazier is one of just 18 Kiwi women to claim two or more Olympic medals. She marked her 50th Sevens Series event in 2024 and reached her 100th career try in Dubai that same season.

Although away from the 15s team for four years, Brazier made a comeback in 2024, chosen as fly half cover for Black Ferns co-captain Ruahei Demant (who also deserves praise), preferred over upcoming talent Hannah King. Off the pitch, Brazier is admired for mentoring younger teammates and even coached in Japan during a 2023 break from playing.

5 Black Ferns to watch ahead of the Women Rugby World Cup

Known for her humility and team-focused mindset, Brazier acknowledges coaches like Allan Bunting and Cory Sweeney for helping build the strong spirit within the Black Ferns Sevens environment.

Grab Your Women Rugby World Cup 2025 Tickets at eticketing.co! Don’t miss the chance to witness the world’s best women’s rugby teams in action at the England Women's Rugby World Cup Tickets. Secure your spot at the tournament and enjoy every try, tackle, and triumph. Buy your tickets now and be part of the excitement!