The former Black Fern Linda Itunu will make rugby history this weekend when she captain's the Barbarians women's rugby side in their first ever international against the United States in Denver this weekend.
Itunu, who retired from international rugby at the end of the Black Ferns tour to France last year will captain a Baabaas side coached by former New Zealand player Anna Richards and including three New Zealanders - halfback Emma Jensen, tighthead prop Stephanie Te Ohaere-Fox and hooker Fiao'o Faamausili.
Itunu, a three-time World Cup winner, will lead a side that also includes England's Rochelle Clark, Wales first five Elinor Snowsill and Scotland centre Helen Nelson.
Linda Itunu (far right) with Emma Jensen, Fiao’o Fa’amausili, Anna Richards and Steph Te Ohaere-Fox. Photo: Supplied
Itunu is confident the Barbarians, with 697 international appearances among them, will be more than competitive against the strong USA side on Saturday.
"I'm so very honoured to be captain, especially because I'm representing the southern hemisphere and because I'm amongst such great players. It's a real privilege," she said.
"I've played against these girls and being able to be on the same side as them means I'm the lucky one. I don't have to tackle them any more - players on our team like (England's) Rocky Clark and (Ireland's) Paula Fitzpatrick are beasts!"
"The USA are a tough side, I know that from playing them last year, and it'll be an exciting game. But these Barbarians will bring some tricks," said Itunu.
Black Ferns and sisters Linda and Aldora Itunu. Photo: Twitter: @BlackFerns