Two-time World Cup winning Black Fern Cheryl Waaka dies

Former Black Fern Cheryl Waaka has died at the age of 56 following a battle with stage four bowel cancer. Her whānau announced her passing on Sunday, describing her as a "beloved sister, friend and legend".

Waaka was a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, helping New Zealand secure titles in 1998 and 2002. During the 2002 final against England, she scored a try in the 19-9 victory. She earned 20 international caps for the Black Ferns, winning 19 of them.

A community fundraising campaign raised more than $80,000 to support her treatment, which included the unfunded drug Avastin. Following her diagnosis last year, Waaka became an advocate for bowel cancer awareness and early detection, particularly for Māori.

In 2005, Waaka became the first woman to coach a senior men's club rugby team in Northland. Her contributions to the sport were recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours when she was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

How it developed

• Mon 12 Oct, 7:07amWaaka's father, Wattie Waaka, and brothers Brent and Tuck Waaka all represented the Māori All Blacks.

Where reports differ

• One report states she had been battling cancer since June last year, while others state she was diagnosed last year.

Compiled from reports by Newsroom, Stuff, RNZ and The Post.