At Allianz Stadium (formerly known as Twickenham) on Wednesday, Marlie Packer and Kennedy Tukuafu shared a friendly chat, as if they were old friends catching up after a long time apart.
Their conversation was easy-going and natural, a stark contrast to what we’ll witness in just a few days.
The Calm Before the Storm
It’s remarkable to think that in just three days, these two will be fiercely competing against each other at the pinnacle of women’s rugby.
On Saturday, Packer, the England captain, and Tukuafu (formerly Simon) from New Zealand will lead their teams into what promises to be an intense match.
Their joint appearance this week to promote the game highlights a significant shift in women’s rugby, showcasing its growing influence both on and off the field.
This kind of collaboration is a rare sight in men’s rugby at the moment, but it signals a promising future for the women’s game, especially with the World Cup on the horizon in England next year.
Growing the Game Together
Packer spoke about their partnership, saying, “Bringing us together as captains is all about advancing the women’s game.
We want to fill stadiums and draw fans from around the world. It’s been great—Kennedy and I really enjoyed our time together.”
She also noted the difference in their interactions compared to match day: “On game days, you greet the opposition captain, but with the rivalry, conversations are usually brief.
This chance to chat has been refreshing.”
Packer was surprised to learn that Tukuafu had just gotten married the previous Sunday.
Their discussion touched on various topics, including funding and resources, which have been vital for the growth of the sport.
The Anticipated Match
England’s team, undefeated since their 2022 World Cup final loss to the Black Ferns, will face New Zealand at Allianz Stadium this Saturday.
With the RFU’s new stadium naming rights in place, this match is set to be a major event.
Both teams are top-ranked, making this encounter a thrilling preview of what might come in next year’s World Cup final.
Team Line-ups
England: Ellie Kildunne; Abby Dow, Emily Scarratt, Tatyana Heard, Jess Breach; Holly Aitchison, Natasha Hunt; Mackenzie Carson, Lark Atkin-Davies, Sarah Bern, Zoe Aldcroft, Abbie Ward, Maddie Feunati, Marlie Packer (capt), Alex Matthews
Replacements: Amy Cokayne, Hannah Botterman, Maud Muir, Morwenna Talling, Georgia Brock, Lucy Packer, Zoe Harrison, Helena Rowland
New Zealand: Renee Holmes; Ayesha Leti-I’iga, Logo-i-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’I Brunt, Ruahei Demant (co-capt), Katelyn Vahaakolo; Hannah King, Maia Joseph; Chryss Viliko, Georgia Ponsonby, Tanya Kalounivale, Alana Bremner, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Kennedy Tukuafu (co-capt), Kaipo Olsen-Baker
Replacements: Atlanta Lolohea, Kate Henwood, Amy Rule, Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, Layla Sae, Iritana Hohaia, Amy du Plessis, Ruby Tui
Referee: Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa)
Kick-off and Venue: 2.30pm Saturday, Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
TV: BBC1
Looking Ahead
It’s likely that we’ll see these teams face off again at the same venue in next year’s World Cup final, with England currently the favorites.
The RFU is hoping for a full house for the final, with the Black Ferns being one of the few teams that could potentially challenge England’s dominance.
Despite this, a loss for England before then might be beneficial for their growth.
The fact that England’s coach is John Mitchell, a former All Blacks coach, adds another layer of excitement to future matchups.
A Strong Rivalry
In their last encounter, England defeated the Black Ferns 33-12 in Auckland to win the inaugural WXV 1 trophy.
Tukuafu highlighted the deep-rooted rivalry between the two teams, even sharing a heartwarming moment when the Black Ferns met King Charles at Buckingham Palace—a viral moment that Ayesha Leti-l’iga found unexpectedly touching.
Tukuafu acknowledged the unique nature of their media interactions, saying, “As much as England and New Zealand have this rivalry, we both want the women’s game to advance.
We can engage in media like this and still be ready to compete.”
She expressed her gratitude for being part of this era of women’s rugby, noting the progress made in resources and opportunities compared to the past.
“It’s incredible to be part of these matches and see the growth of the sport,” Tukuafu concluded.