30 Jun 2010

One new cap in women's rugby team

6:23 am on 30 June 2010

The New Zealand women's rugby coach Brian Evans has named one new cap in his squad to defend their World Cup title in England in August.

The Auckland centre Trish Hina will become a dual international having already represented New Zealand in rugby league.

Canterbury flanker Melissa Ruscoe will captain the side in her second IRB Women's World Cup.

This will be the fourth World Cup for Auckland lock Monalisa Codling, while her Auckland locking partner Victoria Heighway, halfback Emma Jensen, hooker Fiao'o Faamausili, and Canterbury loose forward Casey Robertson and her provincial union teammate, utility back Amiria Rule, will be playing in their third World Cup. Five other players will be attending their second World Cup.

Evans says he's very pleased with the depth and experience they've been able to select for this squad.

The Black Ferns have won the previous three IRB Women's Rugby World Cups in 1998, 2002 and 2006.