Sometimes you cannot beat experience.
Veteran first five Kelly Brazier put her hand up for a spot in the Black Ferns Rugby World Cup squad after a strong performance in Whangarei on Saturday.
The former Otago playmaker controlled the game nicely in the opening half for the Black Ferns in their 45-12 win over the Black Ferns XV.
The 35-year-old showed the class of her kicking game — including a 50-22 in the opening minutes — and was a calm head among some early jitters from players desperate to put their case forward.
Less than 50 days out from the Rugby World Cup, it was one of the last opportunities before the squad is named later this month.
It was a relatively messy game in the opening half, until Black Ferns second five Sylvia Brunt opened things up.
Alana Bremner added another string to her bow as co-captain, and blindside Mia Anderson — in her first Black Ferns game — carried well in an 80-minute effort.
The Black Ferns held a 21-5 lead at halftime, but it was a revolving door of changes in the second half.
Fullback Renee Holmes made good impact in the second half for the Black Ferns, after being dropped earlier this year.
She set up two nice tries, including one for young talent Braxton Sorensen-McGee.
Winger Ruby Tui — yet to crack the Black Ferns squad in 2025 — scored both tries for the Black Ferns XV.
Matatu lock Laura Bayfield was busy for the Black Ferns XV, as was first five Hannah King.
Both join the Black Ferns squad for their test against the Wallaroos this Saturday in Wellington.
Trial game
The scores
Black Ferns 45
Braxton Sorensen-McGee 2, Sylvia Brunt, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Katelynn Vahaakolo, Amy du Plessis, Jorja Miller tries; Kelly Brazier 3 con, Renee Holmes 2 con
Black Ferns XV 12
Ruby Tui 2 tries; Kiera Su’a-Smith con
Halftime: Black Ferns 21-5.
