The Black Ferns will face Ireland for the third time on September 30 in their opening Test Match at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.

“We know Ireland will be an awesome challenge for us at this part of our journey,” Black Ferns director of rugby Allan Bunting said.

The two teams will compete at WXV1, an annual women’s rugby tournament between national teams.

The match will see various Black Ferns reach milestones, including Chelsea Bremner and Renee Holmes, starting in their 20th test.

“Both Chelsea and Renee are dedicated and driven around their growth. It’s been inspiring seeing them continue to develop on and off the field. That is a credit to their commitment to serve this jersey,” Bunting said.

There will be several firsts in the test match against Ireland, with hooker Atlanta Lolohea named in the starting 15, and Marcelle Parkes will start at loosehead prop.

“Marcelle’s place in the starting side is a testament to her perseverance and dedication to transition into the front row. Atlanta’s drive and commitment to growth are outstanding, and we look forward to seeing both of them enjoy this opportunity,” Bunting said.

Tighthead prop Amy Rule will start alongside Parkes and Lolohea. The Black Ferns have selected Layla Sae at number six, Black Ferns Co-Captain Kennedy Tukuafu at openside, and Liana Mikaele-Tu’u at number eight.

In the backs, the return of the attacking midfield combination of Amy du Plessis and Logo-i-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i (Sylvia) Brunt shifts Black Ferns Co-Captain Ruahei Demant back to the first five-eighth position, with energetic winger Ruby Tui set to start on the right wing.

On the bench, hooker Luka Connor joins a powerful replacement front row in Chryss Viliko and Tanya Kalounivale. Hardworking loose forward Lucy Jenkins and utility back Mererangi Paul get their opportunity to inject their energy off the bench for the first time this tour. 

The two sides have met only twice previously, and each has won a game. Bunting said the squad is excited to face Ireland in this opening match of the WXV1 Tournament. 

“It has been inspiring to see their progression this year. But for us, we want to ensure that we start our WXV1 campaign playing our game.”