Veteran Ruby Tui Excluded from Black Ferns XV Squad to Tour South Africa

The absence of Ruby Tui from the Black Ferns XV squad has sparked speculation about her potential inclusion in the World Cup team, as coach Allan Bunting continues to finalize his selections.

Black Ferns coach Allan Bunting may be considering Ruby Tui for his World Cup squad after she wasn’t named in the Black Ferns XV squad to travel to South Africa. The 33-year-old wing, a fan favorite, was notably absent from the 28-player squad that will face the South African women’s team in Cape Town on July 27 and August 3.

The Black Ferns’ 32-strong World Cup squad will be announced on July 25, with the team set to depart for England on August 13. Tui’s exclusion from the XV squad has led to increased speculation about her future in the national team, especially as the World Cup approaches.

Tui’s journey back into contention has been anything but straightforward. She was initially omitted from the first two squads of 2025 but made a strong comeback after scoring two tries in a trial match against the Black Ferns in Whangārei earlier this month. Her performance earned her a spot on the bench for the match against Australia in Wellington, where she scored a try in the 37-12 victory.

The inclusion of Hannah King in the Black Ferns XV squad also hints that Bunting may be leaning towards selecting more experienced players for the World Cup. This includes Kelly Brazier, who could serve as a back-up to co-captain Ruahei Demant.

Here is the full list of players named in the Black Ferns XV squad to travel to South Africa:

• Hookers: Luka Connor, Grace Leaso Gago, Jordan Tihore
• Props: Marcelle Parkes, Cheyenne Tuli-Fale, Maddi Robinson, Ashley Palu, Harono Te Iringa
• Locks: Maama Vaipulu, Sam Taylor, Holly Greenway (c)
• Loose forwards: Taufa Bason, Elinor-Plum King, Fiaali'i Solomona, Lucy Jenkins, Mia Anderson
• Backs (12):
• Halfbacks: Tara Turner, Reese Anderson
• First-five: Hannah King, Keira Su’a Smith
• Midfield: Justine McGregor, Kelsey Teneti, Leilani Hakiwai
• Outside backs: Winnie Palamo, Hollyrae Mete-Renata, Jaymie Kolose, Kaea Nepia, Mererangi Paul

The Black Ferns have maintained a strong record in recent matches, with standout performances from players like Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, who scored three tries in the victory over Australia.

As the World Cup draws closer, all eyes will be on Bunting’s final selections and whether Tui can secure a spot in the squad that aims to defend the title in England.