Faamausili to lead Black Ferns in Ireland

Black Ferns head coach Glenn Moore has mirrored the squad that hosted a four team test series last month, when New Zealand recorded wins against Australia and Canada but lost to England.

He names a highly experienced squad, along the lines of what had been expected though Honey Hireme and Pip Love are two players whose absenses are worth noting.

Moore said June’s tests provided the squad with much-needed international competition in preparation for the World Cup.“We won two Tests and lost one. We were disappointed to lose to England, but now we know what we need to work on and where our strengths lie.“Everyone who’s been selected today deserves their spot. We have the right combination of players, many with lots of experience to draw on. We know how tough the task ahead is and we are excited for the challenge.“We take nothing for granted and the players have been training hard all year, and have continued to play club rugby since the June series finished to maintain match fitness."“We are determined to do our fans, families and our country proud.”

Black Ferns:

Forwards: Aldora Itunu, Toka Natua, Aleisha Nelson, Sosoli Talawadua, Fiao'o Faamausili – captain, Becky Wood, Charmaine Smith, Eloise Blackwell, Charmaine McMenamin, Les Ketu Bay, Linda Itunu, Rawinia Everitt, Sarah Goss, Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate, Aroha Savage Counties, Aotearoa (Katie) Mata'u.

Backs:Stacey Waaka, Kelly Brazier, Victoria Subritzky-Nafatali, Kendra Cocksedge, Kristina Sue, Hazel Tubic, Renee Wickliffe, Portia Woodman, Selica Winiata, Carla Hohepa, Theresa Fitzpatrick, Chelsea Alley.