One debutante and a new front row for Black Ferns

Phillipa Love.
Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz

The Black Ferns have swapped out their front row for this weekend’s Pacific Four test against Canada in Ottawa, while a loose forward is set to debut from the bench.

Following a comprehensive win over Australia in Brisbane the Black Ferns have included three new players to play Canada.

Experienced loosehead prop Phillipa Love earns her first start, Kelsey Teneti returns for her second test in the fifteens format, while uncapped Matatū loose forward Lucy Jenkins is in the reserves.

Love will combine with hooker Luka Connor and tighthead prop Amy Rule, who have been promoted to start in the only changes to the starting fifteen.

Luka Connor.
Photo: AFP / Michael Bradley

The locks, loose forwards and backline remain the same from the big win over the Wallaroos.

Hooker Georgia Ponsonby, props Kate Henwood and Tanya Kalounivale, who started last week, are on the bench.

Jenkins and utility back Teneti come into the reserves and complete the remaining changes to the match-day 23.

Head coach Allan Bunting said that the team were looking forward to the challenge Canada present.

“Canada is a well organised team who were very unlucky not to knock England out of last year’s Rugby World Cup. We will need to ensure we are a bit more patient and accurate in our game this weekend but continue to play with freedom.”

Hopeful debutante, 22-year-old Jenkins will line-up in jersey number 19.

Bunting believes the Super Rugby Aupiki MVP is set to impress with her power, determination, and work-ethic if she takes the field.

“Lucy was a dominant player during Super Rugby Aupiki. She is a very driven individual and has a well-rounded skill set. After taking a bit of time off through sickness, she has come back in and continued to impress in our environment. Lucy has a bright future ahead of her and we are excited to see her play and enjoy this very special moment.”

The Black Ferns team is;

1. Phillipa Love (25)

2. Luka Connor (15)

3. Amy Rule (13)

4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (15)

5. Chelsea Bremner (13)

6. Alana Bremner (14)

7. Kennedy Simon (14) (Co-Captain)

8. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (12)

9. Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu (13)

10. Ruahei Demant (27) (Co-Captain)

11. Katelyn Vahaakolo (1)

12. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu Atai’i (Sylvia) Brunt (8)

13. Amy du Plessis (8)

14. Mererangi Paul (1)

15. Renee Holmes (11)

16. Georgia Ponsonby (14)

17. Kate Henwood (1)

18. Tanya Kalounivale (7)

19. Lucy Jenkins*

20. Kendra Reynolds (10)

21. Iritana Hohaia (1)

22. Rosie Kelly (1)

23. Kelsey Teneti (1)

*Denotes Black Ferns debut.