Sawt Falasteen - Tukuafu returns for women's rugby world champions New Zealand against Japan

Loose forward Tukuafu, who was injured against the USA in the 2025 Pacific Four Series back in July, will start on the openside against Japan, with Jorja Miller switching to blindside following the Black Ferns' 54-8 thrashing of Spain in their Pool C opener.

While Tukuafu is still co-captain, Alana Bremner and Ruahei Demant will lead the side this week to allow Tukuafu to concentrate on her own game.

Prop Kate Henwood also returns from an ankle injury sustained in the July match against the Black Ferns XV.

She is set to make her World Cup debut off the bench alongside fellow World Cup debutants Katelyn Vahaakolo, Atlanta Lolohea, Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu and Maia Joseph.

The starting side sees props Chryss Viliko and Tanya Kalounivale form the front row with hooker Georgia Ponsonby in the front row, with Maiakawanakaulani Roos and Alana Bremner the second row duo.

Meanwhile, outstanding wing Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, is just one try away from becoming New Zealand's all-time top try-scorer.

If she scores in this game against Japan, she will become the first New Zealand rugby player, man or woman, to reach 50 Test tries.

"It’s great to have Kennedy and Kate back in the team," said Black Ferns boss Allan Bunting. "Their grit and determination to get to where they are, at a pinnacle event is a special moment for not only for them but the entire squad."

New Zealand team to play Japan (15-1)

Braxton Sorensen-McGee; Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Stacey Waaka, Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai'i Sylvia Brunt, Katelyn Vahaakolo; Ruahei Demant (co-capt), Risaleaana Pouri-Lane; Layla Sae, Kennedy Tukuafu, Jorja Miller; Alana Bremner (co-capt), Maiakawanakaulani Roos; Tanya Kalounivale, Georgia Ponsonby, Chryss Viliko

Replacements: Atlanta Lolohea, Kate Henwood, Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Laura Bayfield, Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, Maia Joseph, Renee Holmes, Theresa Setefano

Coach: Allan Bunting (NZL)

M.AlAhmad--SF-PST