Sport

Niall Guthrie eyes up last tournament for Black Fern Sevens

07:11 am on 12 May 2023

Niall Guthrie (nee Williams). Photo: Photosport

Black Ferns Sevens coach Cory Sweeney has named an experienced team as his side seek to wrap up the overall World Series title in Toulouse, with playmaker Niall Guthrie (née Williams) named for her final tournament with the team.

Guthrie (nee Williams) has signed a two-year deal with the Gold Coast Titans and is heading to the NRLW at the end of the month.

Sweeney said the team are focused on signing off the season with a complete performance at the final World Series round in France.

"We've had a great couple of weeks of training here in France, alongside the French team. They have been amazing hosts and we are grateful we have had the opportunity to assist each other prepare for this weekend.

"We know our success to date, is credit to the whole squad and the roles each member has played. This weekend our challenge is to ensure we deliver a performance we are proud of and finish the season on a high."

Sweeney finished acknowledging Guthrie for her contribution to the Black Ferns jersey.

"Niall has been a huge contributor for the Black Ferns Sevens and has proudly represented this team. We want to add to her memories in this jersey and wish her all the best for her next adventure."

The Black Ferns are series leaders having won five of six tournaments this season.

If they qualify for the quarter-finals this weekend in Toulouse, they will have secured their first Series title since 2020.

Black Ferns Sevens:

3. Stacey Waaka

4. Niall Guthrie (née Williams)

7. Tyla Nathan-Wong

8. Kelly Brazier

11. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe

12. Alena Saili

13. Jazmin Felix-Hotham

22. Shiray Kaka

34. Sarah Hirini (C)

77. Risaleaana Pouri-Lane

81. Mahina Paul

83. Jorja Miller

Unavailable for selection: Michaela Blyde, Terina Te Tamaki and Theresa Fitzpatrick.