Hansen rings changes as Black Ferns seek improvements against France
Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen has made 13 changes to the team's lineup for the second WXV Global Series Test against France. Despite a dominant 81-12 victory in the first match, the team is focusing on internal improvements and maintaining high performance standards.
Why it matters
The Black Ferns are a premier international rugby team, and their strategic roster management reflects the high level of competition in women's international rugby.
<p><a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/12/19/whitney-hansen-appointed-head-coach-of-black-ferns/" target="_blank">Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen</a> has made 13 changes to her match-day 23 for the second <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/10/12/black-ferns-embracing-home-support-for-france-series/" target="_blank">WXV Global Series Test</a> against France in Whangārei on Saturday.</p> <p>Six of the changes are in the starting 15.</p> <p>New Zealand <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/10/17/black-ferns-score-13-tries-in-big-win-against-france/" target="_blank">won the opening game</a> against France 81-12 last Saturday in Hamilton.</p> <p>The match marks the 150th Black Ferns Test and second of three against France for the home WXV Global Series.</p> <p>Lock Laura Bayfield joins Maama Mo'onia Vaipulu in the second row, while Layla Sae starts in the loose forwards at seven with Liana Mikaele-Tu'u and Kaipo Olsen-Baker in the No.8 jersey.</p> <p>Northland halfback Tara Turner will start in front of her home crowd, with Ruahei Demant returning to captaincy duties at No.10.</p> <p>Following a standout performance last Saturday with four tries to her name, Shyrah Tuliau-Tua'a and Mererangi Paul both move from the bench to starting…
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