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Bunting 'proud' of Black Ferns after Bronze Final victory
By Joe Harvey
Allan Bunting said he was “proud” of his Black Ferns team after they claimed bronze at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup with a 42–26 win against France.
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In the wake of his team’s semi-final loss to Canada the Director of Performance confessed that the group had ‘let their country down’ as they suffered just a second ever World Cup defeat in the final four.
Eight days later and the six-time world champions provided a resolute response to that disappointment as they registered six tries at Allianz Stadium.
“I’m massively proud, I couldn’t be any more prouder,” Bunting said. “They were exceptional today in the effort they put out against a really good French team. Pretty stoked for the group.”
After their clash with Canada, New Zealand left the field in an almost shell-shocked state.
Unable to contend with the pace, power and guile which their North Americans played with, a dominant response was needed.
Renee Holmes picked up the Mastercard Player of the Match gong for her 17 point contribution (one try, two penalties and three conversions) against the French and teenage sensation Braxton Sorensen-McGee even breached the whitewash twice to take her tally of tries in the tournament to 11.
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Elsewhere there were scores for Ruahei Demant, Sylvia Brunt and Laura Bayfield to complete the contest.
It was by no means one-way traffic as the French saw Pauline Bourdon Sansus, Lea Champon, Gaby Vernier and Emilie Boulard all dot down.
Already it is clear that whatever team next turns out for the Black Ferns.
Not only is the future of 34-year-old box office wing Portia Woodman-Wickliffe up in the air, veteran trio Amy Rule, Georgia Ponsonby and Alana Borland will be plying their trade in Premiership Women’s Rugby.
Not keen to be dragged into what is in the future for his side, Bunting was in a more reflecting, introspective mood, and believes that the future of the storied black jersey is bright.
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“There’s been lots of growth in this group over the last three years,” Bunting said.
“Last week was hard because I know these ladies and what they can do.
“Massively proud of the growth, our leadership group – especially our on-field leadership group – and some of the young talent that has jumped out and really inspired the next generation.
“I think it has been pretty cool and to finish off on that note, it’s been really good for these ladies to do our country and our families really proud.”
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