Black Ferns lose co-captain on eve of WXV opener

The Black Ferns have suffered a major blow on the eve of their WXV Global Series opener against France, losing co-captain Ruahei Demant to a calf injury.

The 2022 World Rugby Player of the Year played 10 minutes off the bench against the Springbok Women at FNB Stadium on Saturday, finishing the Test as New Zealand claimed a 52-20 victory as part of a historic double-header in the Greatest Rivalry series.

However, the team will now be without the inspirational leader’s services for heavyweight bouts against France and Scotland, and when they get their shot at England’s 38-match win streak at Allianz Stadium.

Demant’s 56 Tests are the most of any player in the New Zealand camp. With her injury, Georgia Ponsonby will move from co-captain to the sole leader in the environment.

The Black Ferns coaching staff are yet to decide on a replacement, with an announcement expected in the coming days.

Hannah King remains the only specialist No.10 in the squad after Demant’s exit.