Minister wishes Black Ferns luck in first internationals as professionals

Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson wishes the Black Ferns luck as they open the first of two doubleheaders tomorrow that will see New Zealand taking on Australia’s national rugby sides.

“This is a truly historic occasion and a proud moment in our sporting history, as the Black Ferns take the field for the first time ever as contracted players. It signals a real turning point for our elite sportswomen. It’s also very special to see them competing alongside the All Blacks in these two internationals,” Grant Robertson said.

“The Black Ferns take on the Wallaroos tomorrow in Sydney, and again on 25 August in Auckland, to defend the Laurie O’Reilly Memorial Cup. Each match will be followed by the All Blacks vs the Wallabies in Bledisloe Cup matches.

“Last year the Black Ferns were named both the New Zealand Rugby and World Rugby Team of the Year. This capped off 2017 as one of the greatest ever years in the history of the team, and it’s fantastic that New Zealand Rugby has organised this opportunity for fans around the world and at home to see them in action.

“Girls and women are signing up to play rugby in record numbers across the country and it is the fastest growing area of our national game. I feel immensely proud to see our women athletes starting to get the value and visibility they deserve on the international stage,” Grant Robertson said.

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