Debutant Martha Mataele among nine Matatū players named in Black Ferns squad

Nine Matatū players have been named in the Black Ferns side to play four international tests between now and November. The squad includes Martha Mataele who will pull on the black jersey for the first time.

Martha Mataele celebrates her intercept try in this year’s Aupiki Grand Final

The Matatū players named are hookers Georgia Ponsonby and Natalie Delamere, tighthead prop Amy Rule, loose forwards Alana Bremner and Lucy Jenkins, first five eight Rosie Kelly, midfielder Amy du Plessis, and outside backs Martha Mataele and Renee Holmes. 

Mataele is one of four debutants in the 30-strong squad, an effort from Black Ferns coaching group to build depth. 

“It has been a very tough selection for our coaching group, which demonstrates the growth in our women’s game and a reflection our depth is certainly building,” said Allan Bunting, Black Ferns Director of Rugby. 

Those players had stood out “in several important behaviours we value”. 

“It is an exciting opportunity for them to come on this journey and look to continue their growth both on and off the field,” Bunting said. 

The Black Ferns play the Wallaroos at 4.35pm on 30 September FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton –their first game on home soil for the 2023 season and the final test of the O’Reilly Cup. 

It’ll be their final fixture before the inaugural WXV1 tournament, the Black Ferns playing three home games versus France (21 October), Wales (28 October) and England (4 November).  

All games will be broadcast live on Sky Sport. 

“To have the opportunity for our whānau and fans to see the team in action is special,” Bunting said. 

“We are excited about the challenge that lies ahead, the importance of building our foundations for the future and to have that here in Aotearoa will be precious for us. The way the country got behind our Black Ferns last year, and again have done so with the Football Ferns this year, it is special. And we are looking forward to seeing that support again.” 

O-Reilly Cup 

30 September, 4.35pm at FMG Stadium Waikato, HAMILTON 

WXV1 Tournament  

Black Ferns v France, Saturday 21 October, 7.00pm, Sky Stadium, WELLINGTON 

Black Ferns v Wales, Saturday 28 October, 4.00pm, Forsyth Barr Stadium, DUNEDIN 

Black Ferns v England, Saturday 4 November, 7.00pm, Go Media Stadium, AUCKLAND