11 nib BLUES NAMED FOR BLACK FERNS

The nib Blues are celebrating the selection of 11 players in the first Black Ferns squad of 2026, named for the upcoming Pacific Four Series in the USA and Australia.

Three Blues players are in line to make their Black Ferns debut, with Mele Taufa Bason, Hollyrae Mete-Renata and Tara Turner all named in the national squad for the first time.

They are joined by experienced internationals Sylvia Brunt, Ruahei Demant, Atlanta Lolohea, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Mererangi Paul, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Maama Vaipulu and Chryss Viliko.

The Pacific Four Series marks the first campaign of the year for the Black Ferns, providing an opportunity to test combinations and build depth ahead of a busy international calendar.

The squad will assemble in Wellington before travelling to the United States for their opening match in April.

nib Blues selected for Pac4

Mele Taufa Bason (Potential Debut)
Sylvia Brunt
Ruahei Demant
Atlanta Lolohea
Hollyrae Mete-Renata (Potential Debut)
Liana Mikaele-Tu'u
Mererangi Paul 
Maiakawanakaulani Roos
Tara Turner (Potential Debut)
Maama Vaipulu
Chryss Viliko 

Black Ferns Pacific Four Series

Black Ferns v USA
Sunday 12 April, 11.00am (NZT)
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

Black Ferns v Canada
Saturday 18 April, 10.15am (NZT)
CPKC Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Black Ferns v Australia
Saturday 25 April, 7.45pm (NZT)
Sunshine Coast Stadium