Black Ferns suffer huge blow as co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu faces surgery

The Black Ferns have confirmed on Monday that co-captain and inspirational leader Kennedy Tukuafu will miss the next six months with a hamstring injury.

Tukuafu will have surgery on her hamstring after picking up the injury in Chiefs Manawa’s shock loss on 27 June to the Hurricanes Poua in Pukekohe.

The experienced Black Fern suffered a hamstring tear and will undergo surgery to repair the muscle over the next six months.

Tukuafu will miss the whole 2026 international season, which included a historic Black Ferns Test series against the British Irish and Lions.

The 37-Test Black Fern said she’s grateful for the ongoing support.

“Although I’m out of action for a while, I’m still closely involved with my team and I’m grateful for the support from my teammates, whanau and the wider rugby community,” Tukuafu said on an New Zealand Rugby release.

“My focus now is on surgery, rehabilitation and doing everything I can to return to the game.”

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Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen said the whole community is behind Tukuafu, and she has no doubt she will return to the frame shortly after her recovery.

“We’re really feeling for Kennedy. Injuries are always tough and this is a hard setback for someone who gives so much to the Black Ferns.

“Kennedy leads with authenticity and care and her influence on this group extends well beyond what she does on the field.

“We know she’ll approach her recovery with the same resilience, professionalism and determination she shows every day. The whole Black Ferns whanau will be right behind her as she works towards her return.”