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6d ago

Woodman-Wickliffe Ends Retirement to Lead Black Ferns’ World Cup Bid

The record-breaking winger has signed an eight-month contract to rejoin New Zealand Rugby ahead of the 2025 Women’s World Cup in England.

Paris 2024 Olympics - Rugby Sevens - Women's Pool A - New Zealand vs Canada - Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France - July 28, 2024. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand in action with Carissa Norsten of Canada REUTERS/Dylan Martinez/File Photo
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is coming out of international retirement to play for New Zealand at the 2025 women's rugby World Cup

Overview

  • Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, the all-time leading try-scorer in Women’s World Cup history with 20 tries, has reversed her international retirement.
  • The 33-year-old has signed a short-term eight-month contract with New Zealand Rugby to compete in the upcoming global tournament in August and September.
  • Woodman-Wickliffe retired after winning her second Olympic rugby sevens gold medal at the Paris 2024 Games but reconsidered following her success in domestic Super Rugby Aupiki this year.
  • She brings a decorated career to the Black Ferns, including two Women’s World Cup titles (2017, 2021) and a reputation for excelling in high-pressure matches.
  • The 2025 Women’s World Cup, hosted by England, sees the Black Ferns aiming for a historic third consecutive title, with England emerging as strong favorites.