Sport / Wellington Region

Recap: Black Ferns take on France in WXV1 competition

21:00 pm on 21 October 2023

Maiakawanakaulani Roos of the Black Ferns makes a pass, playing against France in the WXV1 women's rugby match at Sky Stadium, Wellington. Photo: Photosport/ Elias Rodriguez

France have beaten the Black Ferns 18-17 in the inaugural WXV 1 Tournament in Wellington, ending New Zealand's 16 match winning streak.

The tournament is a new global competition outside of a World Cup and a new step forward for women's rugby.

After successfully defending the O'Reilly Cup the Black Ferns starting fifteen saw only two changes, with Ruby Tui on the right wing, in her first start in the Black Ferns jersey this season.

Fullback Renee Holmes joined Tui in the starting fifteen, donning the number 15 jersey, after recovering from a shoulder injury. The inclusion of Holmes meant utility back Patricia Maliepo was shifted back to the bench.

Recap the game with RNZ's play-by-play: