Kaipo Olsen-Baker returns for Black Ferns ahead of Red Roses blockbuster

Kaipo Olsen-Baker is back in action and has been named in the Black Ferns’ starting XV for their Test against the Red Roses on Saturday 26 September.

With over 50,000 fans expected at Allianz Stadium for the clash between the fierce rivals, the Black Ferns’ final Test of the WXV Global Series in the Northern Hemisphere promises to deliver some blockbuster entertainment.

Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen has named her match-day 23, which sees the return of Olsen-Baker, winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga and lock Laura Bayfield, and after overpowering Scotland in a ten-try 66-14 victory at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh, the side will be looking to continue their 100 per cent win record under her leadership.

Loosehead prop Chyrss Viliko and tighthead prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu will form the front row, alongside captain Georgia Ponsonby at hooker.

Maiakawanakaulani Roos will partner Laura Bayfield in the second row, while loose forwards Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Elinor Plum-King and number eight Kaipo Olsen-Baker complete the forward pack.

The Black Ferns’ half-back partnership will be Maia Joseph and Hannah King, with the Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atati’i Sylvia Brunt and Amy Du Plessis in midfield.

In the back three, Braxton Sorensen-McGee starts at full-back, with Ayesha Leti-I’iga and Mererangi Paul on the wings.

On the bench, Atlanta Lolohea, Maddison Robinson and Santo Taumata, Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu and Layla Sae have been named as forward replacements, with Tara Turner, who was named Player of the Match against Scotland, joining Justine McGregor and Alena Saili as backline cover.

Whitney Hansen, Black Ferns head coach, said: “Our players are built different, we’re made for these moments. We’ve continued to grow each week and we’re excited to put our rugby identity to the test against England, who are currently number one in the world.

“On behalf of the Black Ferns, I’d like to thank all our supporters both in-stadium and back home who have tuned in during the early hours to support us throughout this campaign. We feel your aroha [love] and it’s hugely appreciated. We are also looking forward to seeing you all at our home French Test series in October.”

2026 WXV Global Series | Black Ferns match day squad v England

15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee (13)
14. Mererangi Paul (20)
13. Amy Du Plessis (29)
12. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt (36)
11. Ayesha Leti-I’iga (35)
10. Hannah King (17)
9. Maia Joseph (23)
1. Chryss Viliko (25)
2. Georgia Ponsonby (44) – captain
3. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu (10)
4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (45)
5. Laura Bayfield (11)
6. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (42)
7. Elinor-Plum King (4)
8. Kaipo Olsen-Baker (20)

Replacements

16. Atlanta Lolohea (13)
17. Maddison Robinson (7)
18. Santo Taumata (10)
19. Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu (14)
20. Layla Sae (21)
21. Tara Turner (6)
22. Justine McGregor (6)
23. Alena Saili (7)

Unavailable due to injury: Mia Anderson (calf)