All Matatū Front Row Named to Play Manusina

The Black Ferns XV are set to play Manusina (Samoa Women) tomorrow at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe with an undeniable Matatū presence.

An all Matatū front row of Eilis Doyle, Atlanta Lolohea and Moomooga Palu will be operating alongside Matatū and Otago loose forward Leah Miles.

Atlanta Lolohea before Matatū v Chiefs Manawa. Image - Matatū

Di Hiini has been rewarded for another excellent Farah Palmer Cup Season with Canterbury and gets the nod to start at halfback. Hiini also enjoyed a successful stint with Australian Super Rugby side the Reds, making the final of Super W before coming back home to New Zealand for domestic rugby.

Di Hiini and Marcelle Parkes post Aupiki 2023 Final. Image. - Matatū

A Matatū midfield duo of Grace Brooker and Cheyenne Cunningham promises plenty of skill and running rugby with Brooker also captaining the side.

Moving to the bench now and Marcelle Parkes will be looking to make an impact playing in her new position of prop, after moving from the loose forwards after the latest Aupiki season. Young and promising lock Emma Dermody is also expected to get some minutes against the Samoans.

Finally, Matatū Head of Rugby Whitney Hansen fills the role of Head Coach to round out a squad that reflects the depth of female rugby talent we have in our region.

Catch the Black Ferns XV taking on Manusina Saturday the 23rd of September (tomorrow) at 4:35pm on Sky Sport 1