Black Ferns squad announced for Rugby World Cup title defence

Friday 25 July 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Fri 25 Jul 2025, 5:55pm

In this story Black Ferns, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Jorja Miller, Allan Bunting, Wallaroos, Kelly Brazier

Coach Allan Bunting has named a 32-player squad to defend the Black Ferns' Rugby World Cup title in England next month. The selection includes Army captain Laura Bayfield and Otago halfback Maia Joseph, while Ruby Tui has missed out on the squad.

How they headlined it

5:20pm5:55pm

1. NewsroomFri 25 Jul 2025, 5:20pm

   Army captain builds a bridge to Rugby World Cup (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesFri 25 Jul 2025, 5:22pm

   Joseph named in Black Ferns World Cup squad (opens in new tab)

3. RNZFri 25 Jul 2025, 5:55pm

   Black Ferns World Cup squad named: few surprises but no room for Ruby (opens in new tab)