'Huge for the women’s game': NZ under-21 women's team set for milestone match

News
Sport

Author: NZ Herald ,
Publish Date: Fri, 4 Sep 2026, 3:45pm

New Zealand Rugby is set to achieve a significant milestone in developing its women’s pathways.

For the first time, a New Zealand women’s age-group team is set to compete in an international fixture, with a test in Christchurch on October 31.

The under-21 women’s team will take on Australia’s NextGen squad in the first leg of a double-header, with the Black Ferns’ clash against France to be played afterwards.

“This is huge for the women’s game,” New Zealand Rugby (NZR) high-performance manager Kendra Cocksedge said.

“A lot of girls grow up dreaming of wearing the black jersey, but until now that’s only been possible in sevens, or with the Black Ferns XV or Black Ferns. This match is representative of how far the game has come and a chance for New Zealand to see the incredible talent coming through. It’s a significant moment for rugby in New Zealand.”

The squad is expected to be announced in early October, and the slate of games will bring an end to what has been a busy year for the Black Ferns.

The clash will be their third against France on home soil as part of the WXV Global Series, with tests in Whangārei and Hamilton as well, and will be the team’s 11th test of the season.

Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen echoed Cocksedge’s views on the under-21 fixture, noting its importance to developing pathways for young players.

“For young women coming through the pathway, having the opportunity to play at that level alongside players their own age is hugely important for their development. It’s also inspirational. They can see players like themselves wearing the black jersey, and know that becoming a Black Fern is within reach.

“As we continue to build our depth and look towards the Lions tour next year and the 2029 Rugby World Cup, these are exactly the opportunities we want to create in our pathway. It’s a really positive step for the growth of the game.”