Olsen-Baker returns as Black Ferns name full-strength side to face world-number-one England

Kaipo Olsen-Baker has been named at number eight as New Zealand head coach Whitney Hansen named a strengthened Black Ferns side to face England in their WXV Global Series finale at Allianz Stadium on Saturday 26 July, with more than 50,000 fans expected for the meeting between two of the sport’s fiercest rivals.

Olsen-Baker’s return is one of three changes from the side that dismantled Scotland 66-14 in Edinburgh, with winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga and lock Laura Bayfield also coming back into the starting XV. The Black Ferns head into the fixture unbeaten under Hansen and will be targeting a perfect record in the series against an England side currently ranked number one in the world.

Captain Georgia Ponsonby starts at hooker, flanked by loosehead prop Chryss Viliko and tighthead Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu. Bayfield partners Maiakawanakaulani Roos in the second row, while Liana Mikaele-Tu’u and Elinor Plum-King complete the back row alongside Olsen-Baker.

Maia Joseph and Hannah King form the half-back pairing, with Sylvia Brunt and Amy Du Plessis in midfield. Braxton Sorensen-McGee starts at full-back, with Leti-I’iga and Mererangi Paul on the wings.

Tara Turner, named Player of the Match against Scotland, is among the backline replacements alongside Justine McGregor and Alena Saili. Mia Anderson is listed as unavailable due to a calf injury.

Hansen said her squad was ready for the challenge. “Our players are built different — we’re made for these moments. We’ve continued to grow each week and we’re excited to put our rugby identity to the test against England, who are currently number one in the world.”

The head coach also acknowledged the supporters who have followed the campaign from New Zealand. “On behalf of the Black Ferns, I’d like to thank all our supporters both in-stadium and back home who have tuned in during the early hours to support us throughout this campaign. We feel your aroha and it’s hugely appreciated.”