Hansen to lead Black Ferns

New Zealand women's rugby head coach Brian Evans is to take a break from coaching for the rest of the year with Grant Hansen to step up and lead the team as they prepare for a three test series this November against England.

Evans led the side to their fourth consecutive World Cup title last year in London and with Hansen stepping up, Otago Women's NPC coach John Kyle has been appointed as his Assistant Coach.

Hansen has expressed his delight at the prospect of a three year schedule of test matches of England lined up this week.

The schedule see the Black Ferns play England nine times before the next World Cup starting with a three-test series later this year in the UK.

"We're incredibly proud to have taken out the Women's RWC in four consecutive tournaments and a three-year programme definitely strengthens the planning for our next RWC campaign.

"We have some very strong and talented women out there and the unavailability of some of our 2010 Black Ferns means there will be an opportunity for new players to put themselves into the frame for selection. These international fixtures always provide an added incentive for them to excel in their sport.

"It's great to have John Kyle with us this year - he is a familiar face to many of the players. John has shown great loyalty to the women's game, having been Otago Women's Assistant Coach in 2006, then moving into the Head Coach role until this year, and he'll be a huge asset to our campaign this year," Hansen said.

The New Zealand women's NPC kicks off this weekend. SeeHEREfor a preview of the teams competing.