Black Ferns v Scotland – Heat rookie set to debut

The Black Ferns will be counting on the skills of a new Counties Manukau Heat recruit (and sevens star), Maia Davis, when taking on Scotland in Edinburgh.

Kicking off at 4.10am tomorrow morning, September 20 (NZ time), the match follows an undefeated run for the Black Ferns so far this season.

However, with a showdown against world number one England next weekend, the Ferns are looking to blood some new talent, coach Whitney Hansen confirms.

“While this campaign is certainly about growing continuity and connections, the match against Scotland presents an exciting opportunity for some new talent to experience Test rugby,” she says.

“Maia is a talented athlete, and we’ve all loved supporting her growth in this environment. She has so much to offer this team, both now and into the future, and this is just the beginning of something special for her and for us.”

Another fifteens international rookie prop Ngano Tavake, will also provide impact off the bench, Hansen expects.

“Ngano’s actions speak louder than her words. She’s incredibly humble, hardworking and has continued to impress us with what she brings to the group, both on and off the field.,” she adds.

“I want to congratulate Ngano and Maia. It will be a special moment for them and their whānau.”

The squad also includes Heat halfback Tara Turner and former Heat lock Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu.

The team is:

1. 1. Maddison Robinson
   2. Georgia Ponsonby (captain)
   3. Mo’omo’oga Palu
   4. Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu
   5. Laura Bayfield
   6. Layla Sae
   7. Elinor-Plum King
   8. Mia Anderson
   9. Tara Turner
   10. Hannah King
   11. Shyrah Tuliau-Tua’a
   12. Alena Saili
   13. Amy Du Plessis
   14. Justine McGregor
   15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee
   16. Vici-Rose Green
   17. Ngano Tavake
   18. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu
   19. Maiakawanakaulani Roos
   20. Amarante Sititi
   21. Maia Joseph
   22. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt
   23. Maia Davis

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