Black Ferns v France: Whitney Hansen makes five personnel changes to starting side for second test
Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen has announced five changes to the starting lineup for the second test match against France in Whangārei. The adjustments aim to balance squad consistency with providing game time to developing players during the team's 150th test.
Why it matters
Managing player rotation is critical for maintaining high performance in international rugby while developing depth for future tournaments.
As the Black Ferns head into their penultimate test of the year, coach Whitney Hansen has opted to keep things fresh with her squad selections.
Off the back of an 81-12 win over France in Hamilton, the New Zealand side will have five personnel changes to the starting lineup for the second of three tests between the nations in Whangārei on Saturday afternoon.
The changes come across the field as selectors continue to balance consistency with game time in the Black Ferns’ 150th test.
In the forwards, Laura Bayfield starts at lock alongside Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, with Maiakawanakaulani Roos moving to the bench, while loose forward Elinor-Plum King is out of the matchday squad as Layla Sae gets the start at openside flanker, after King started the last six tests in the No 7 jersey.
“She’s been phenomenal for us,” Hansen said of the Black Ferns’ rookie flanker.
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