Bayfield poised to debut for Black Ferns
Matatu lock Laura Bayfield will get her first taste of test rugby tomorrow.
Bayfield has been named on the bench for her Black Ferns debut in their clash against the Wallaroos in Wellington, their last test on home soil before the Rugby World Cup next month.
Bayfield was a standout for the Black Ferns XV in their trial game against the Black Ferns last weekend and had a strong Super Rugby Aupiki season.
Former Otago playmaker Kelly Brazier is also in line to play her first test since 2021 after being named on the bench.
Otago halfback Maia Joseph, who has made the No 9 jersey her own in the past 18 months, is sidelined with a hamstring complaint.
Black Ferns coach Allan Bunting has named sevens star Risaleaana Pouri-Lane in her place, while Iritana Hohaia is on the bench.
"Laura was a standout throughout Super Rugby Aupiki this year and has put in the work," Bunting said.
"She topped all stats for the Black Ferns XV in Whangārei and deserves her opportunity to debut this weekend. It's going to be a proud moment for Laura and her whānau.
"It has also been great having Kelly in the July series squad, her experience has really added to our depth at 10."
But there are talking points across the team.
Ruby Tui, yet to make the Black Ferns in 2025 before being called in earlier this week as cover, has been named on the bench for her 20th test.
Renee Holmes returns to fullback for her first test this year, after a fine performance against the second-stringers last week.
Young gun Braxton Sorensen-McGee picked up a hip complaint and will skip
the test.
Alana Bremner, co-captain with Ruahei Demant in place of sidelined Kennedy Tukuafu, shifts to the blindside and forms a loose forward trio with Jorja Miller and Liana Mikaele-Tu'u.
Bremner's sister, Chelsea, will pack down at lock with Maia Roos.
Matatu prop Amy Rule will earn her 30th cap off the bench.
Kate Henwood, Ayesha Leti-I'iga and Amy du Plessis are all out with injury.
The game is a double-header in Wellington, with the All Blacks v France game to be played afterwards.
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