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Izzy GAze has secured a White Ferns central contract PHOTO: NZC SCREENSHOT The young trio of Flora Devonshire, Nensi Patel, and Izzy Sharp are the newcomers to the New Zealand 17-player central contract list for 2026-27. Devonshire and Sharp’s contracts come off the back of their involvement in NZC’s Central Players of Interest programme over the past 12 months. The programme is one of the women’s pathway avenues that aims to accelerate the development of high-potential talent. LATEST HEADLINES: Super Rugby Aupiki round one Hobbs Diamond League podium Price Equestrian Eventing No 1 Cooper Moore Junior Pres Cup Experienced Tall Blacks named Suzie Bates, Lauren Down, and Lea Tahuhu have come off the central contract list from last year after confirming their international retirements, alongside Sophie Devine who was on a casual playing agreement. Devonshire, Patel, and Sharp join an experienced list of regulars including captain Melie Kerr, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, and Georgia Plimmer. Left-arm batting all-rounder Devonshire made her international debut in March 2025 and has since been named in two World Cup squads. The 23-year-old Central Hind has persisted through finger injuries over the last year and continued to impress with her all-round skills and clean ball-striking on the domestic scene. Spin bowling all-rounder Patel has been recalled after receiving her first WHITE FERNS contract in the 2022-23 season. The 24-year-old Northern Brave has taken 14 wickets since her international debut in February, making a tidy start to her T20I career averaging 9.8 with an economy rate of 4.04 with the ball. Patel made a positive start to her debut ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign, taking 4-18 against Bangladesh in the team’s first warm-up match on the weekend. Sharp, a hard-hitting right-hander from Timaru, has long been touted as a prospect for the future. The 21-year-old led New Zealand U19 to the inaugural ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in 2023 when she was on her first domestic contract with the Canterbury Magicians. A crucial batter in the Magicians’ line up, Sharp averaged 30 with the bat striking at 128 during the 2025-26 Super Smash and was the team’s top run-scorer. Fran Jonas, who recently represented New Zealand A on their tour to Sri Lanka, has retained her contract as the 22-year-old continues to make progress with technical changes to her bowling. New Zealand head coach Ben Sawyer was pleased to reward the newcomers with a central contract. “Congratulations to all 17 contracted players, especially to Flora, Nensi and Izzy who are new to the list,” said Sawyer. “All three of these players add talent and energy to the group and we’re really excited about their future as WHITE FERNS.” Sawyer said the contract selection process was not easy. “Every year the contracting process gets tougher because there’s a growing pool of players fighting for spots. “It means there’s genuine depth building in our women’s system which is ultimately a great thing for the White Ferns.” Sawyer praised the new faces. “Flora’s a clean striker with lots of power. “Being left-handed she offers a point of difference as she’s able to hit to different areas of the field, and there’s the added bonus of her left-arm orthodox bowling. “Nensi’s consistently accurate with the ball, and she has great control over her length and pace.” Sawyer said he saw similarities between Sharp and Devine. “Izzy’s batting has been building from strength to strength. “She possesses similar qualities to Sophie and with Soph stepping away from international cricket soon, it’s really exciting to bring someone with Izzy’s power onto a central contract so we can keep working with her to develop those skills.” The White Ferns are currently in England preparing for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. They play their first Group match on Sunday against the West Indies at 5.30am NZT, broadcast live in New Zealand on Sky Sport. Cenral Contracts 2026-2027 Eden Carson Otago Flora Devonshire* Central Districts Izzy Gaze Auckland Maddy Green Auckland Brooke Halliday Auckland Bree Illing Auckland Polly Inglis Otago Bella James Otago Fran Jonas Auckland Jess Kerr Wellington Melie Kerr Wellington Rosemary Mair Central Districts Nensi Patel** Northern Districts Molly Penfold Auckland Georgia Plimmer Wellington Hannah Rowe Central Districts Izzy Sharp* Canterbury *First central contract **Returning to central contract

The four leaders of Super Rugby Aupiki which starts this weekend PHOTOl ACTION PRESS/NZR Rugby Aupiki returns with double-defending champions the Blues the leading contender again but there's plenty of competition from Hurricanes Poua plus previous winners the Chiefs Manawa and Matatū. LATEST HEADLINES: Hobbs Diamond League podium Price Equestrian Eventing No 1 Cooper Moore Junior Pres Cup Experienced Tall Blacks named Super Rugby semifinal teams Blues v Hurricanes Poua: Eden Park, Auckland; Satuirday 13 June, 2:05 pm Referee: Erin Doherty (2nd Aupiki Match) The Blues are stacked with 10 current or former Black Ferns in their starting XV and another four on the bench. Captain Maiakawanakaulani Roos hasn’t missed a minute of Aupiki and locks the scrum with Maama Vaipulu, who was in form during the Black Ferns Pacific Four series win in April. The loose forwards are headlined by world-class Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, with 2025 breakout Taufa Bason aiming to continue her momentum. Amarante Sititi, sister of All Black Wallace Sititi, approaches the game with similar vigour. Former Black Fern Tafito Lafaele returns after a stint in the NRLW. Outstanding Black Ferns Ruahei Demant, Sylvia Brunt and Braxton Sorensen-McGee are now joined by Mererangi Paul. Paul was the Black Ferns' leading try scorer in the Pacific Four and has moved from Chiefs Manawa. The Blues' overall Aupiki record is 15 wins and 8 defeats, with 12 victories in the past two seasons. In 2025, they won both matches against the Poua 50-10 and 49-26. In the first win, former Black Ferns front rower Grace Gago, who will come off the bench for the Blues, scored two tries. Blues coach Willie Walker feels that hard work to grow the game is paying dividends. “A few seasons ago, we had a big focus on growing our base and talent from our region and it’s been great to see those players now go on to higher honours and still be a part of our group.” The Poua’s last competition win against the Blues was in 2023, but they won a pre-season joust in inclement weather in Heretaunga 26-14. Mo’omo’oga Ona Palu, Te Rauoriwa Gapper, Lily Murray-Wihongi and Kokako Raki scored tries in a hearty display. All four players feature on Saturday, with Black Fern Palu, a 2023 championship winner from Matatū, bolstering the Poua scrum. Gapper has won four Farah Palmer Cup Premierships with Canterbury. The 34-year-old slots in at second five-eighth as co-captain alongside Black Ferns XV lock or flanker Samantaha Taylor, 23. After two seasons without a win, the Poua have a new remit under new coach Māori All Black Hayden Triggs. “Why coach this team? It’s a great challenge, a chance to grow my own pedagogy, but, more importantly, to bring new energy and new ideas and make a difference. The performances over the past two seasons aren’t good enough. There are many reasons for that. We’ve reviewed them and will learn from them. There is a huge desire and intent to be better.” In an attempt to shake things up, the Hurricanes have selected Black Ferns fullback and new recruit Renee Holmes at first-five, while Iritana Hohaia shifts from halfback to fullback, a position she has played for Taranaki. Halfback Molly Scuffil McCabe, who has played for Ireland, tackling machines Greer Muir and Neve Anglesey, and Black Fern Ayesha Leti-I’iga, who has scored 202 tries in 82 games for her club Ories, are ones to watch. Matatū v Chiefs Manawa: One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch:: Saturday 13 June, 4:05 pm Referee: Maggie Cogger-Orr (13th Aupiki Match) Chiefs Manawa beat Matatū 17-15 in the first Aupiki match on March 10, 2022, in Hamilton. The closeness of that tussle has fuelled their rivalry, with Manawa leading 4-3 and six matches decided by eight points or fewer. A key clash in the scrum will be between new Black Ferns Veisina Matutariki-Fakalelu (tighthead Manawa) and Matatū loosehead Maddi Robinson. Robinson won Aupiki with the Blues in 2024 and has 12 wins in 15 games for Canterbury. Matutariki-Fakalelu had a barnstorming 2025 Aupiki campaign, ranking in the top ten for carries and offloads. The Chiefs' scrum and lineouts have historically been powerful. They’ll use both as weapons for strike attacks and piggyback penalties. Fijian international Jade Coates, Black Ferns blindside Mia Anderson, and Bay of Plenty Jessie Wharekura are key performers here, along with Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu and three-time Waikato FPC winner Chyna Hohepa. Matatū should hold their own up front. Watch for the 2023 top tackler and Black Fern Lucy Jenkins, Black Ferns Player of the Year 2024 Kaipo Olsen-Baker, and lock Paris Lokotui making her debut after winning the ANZ championship with the Central Pulse. Manawa’s backline is comparatively green compared to the hosts'. Carys Dallinger runs the cutter after playing for Australia. Lela Ieremia has scored 15 tries and enjoyed 19 wins with Waikato. Matatū’s backline boasts the well-established midfield combination of Amy Du Plessis and Grace Brooker, back to captain after her stint in AFLW. Coach Mia Anderson feels there's plenty to play for. "The Manawa and Matatū rivalry is intense. We are quite different culturally and in the way we play. There’s a lot of respect there. The Blues have the most Black Ferns and experience of winning Aupiki. They’re the team to beat. We're working hard to create an exciting game plan and culture that works for us.” nib Blues Team – Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Round 1 1. Cilia-Marie Po’e-Tofaeono 2. Atlanta Lolohea 3. Aldora Itunu 4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos 5. Maama Vaipulu 6. Amarante Sititi (debut) 7. Taufa Bason 8. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (20th game) 9. Tara Turner 10. Ruahei Demant 11. Sariyah Paitai (debut) 12. Hollyrae Mete-Renata (debut) 13. Sylvia Brunt 14. Mererangi Paul (debut) 15. Braxton Sorensen-McGee Reserves: 16. Grace Gago (20th game), 17. Nijiho Nagata, 18. Harono Te Iringa, 19. Eloise Blackwell, 20. Tafito Lafaele, 21. Danny-Elle Fesolai (debut), 22. Ffion Penney (debut), 23. Hazel Tubic (debut) Hurricanes Poua Team – Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Round 1 1. Krystal Murray (5) 2. Valini Vaka (debut) 3. Ona Palu (debut) 4. Brianna Wallace (debut) 5. Stacey Niao (debut) 6. Sam Taylor (10) – co-captain 7. Neve Anglesey (debut) 8. Greer Muir (debut) 9. Molly Scuffil-McCabe (debut) 10. Renee Holmes (debut) 11. Ayesha Leti-I’iga (12) 12. Te Rauoriwa Gapper (8) – co-captain 13. Leilani Hakiwai (12) 14. Wikitoria Viljoen (debut) 15. Iritana Hohaia (17) Reserves: 16. Keiana Roffey (debut), 17. Ngano Tavake (7), 18. Faythe Finau (debut), 19. Lily Murray-Wihongi (debut), 20. Anahera Hamahona (debut), 21. Fia Laikong (3), 22. Kokako Raki (debut), 23 Arene Landon-Lane (1) Matatū Team – Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Round 1 **denotes debut Matatū team - Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Round 1 1. Maddi Robinson 2. Nat Delamere 3. Santo Taumata* 4. Laura Bayfield 5. Paris Lokotui** 6. Fiaali'i Solomona 7. Elinor-Plum King* 8. Kaipo Olsen-Baker 9. Maia Joseph 10. Hannah King 11. Binky Muamua** 12. Grace Brooker 13. Amy du Plessis 14. Winnie Palamo 15. Poppy Baxter** Reserves: 16. Holly Greenway, 17. Marcelle Parkes, 18. Wikitoria Rogers** , 19. Sophie Kerr** , 20. Sarah Jones, 21. Kelsyn McCook, 22. Charntay Poko, 23. Charlotte Va'afusuaga Chiefs Manawa Team – Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Round 1` * denotes debut 1. Chyann Kaitapu* 2. Vici-Rose Green 3. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu 4. Jade Coates 5. Jessie Wharekura* 6. Mia Anderson 7. Kennedy Tukuafu (c) 8. Chyna Hohepa 9. Ariana Bayler 10. Carys Dallinger* 11. Shyrah Tuliau-Tua'a* 12. Huia Harding* 13. Shoshanah Seumanutafa 14. Lela Ieremia* 15. Presayus Singh* Reserves: 16. Nicole Purdom*, 17. Amber Mundell*, 18. Lonita Ngalu*, 19. Leata Puni-Lio, 20. Olivia Holten*, 21. Tynealle Fitzgerald, 22. Madison Flutey*, 23. Reese Anderson

Zoe Hobbs (left in tights), Julien Alfred centre and Amy Hunt (right) finish top three at the Diamond League meet in Oslo PHOTO: WORLD ATHLETICS New Zealand sprinter Zoe Hobbs picked up her second career Diamond League podium finish with a third at the Bislett Games in Oslo, Norway with a time of 11.03 seconds in the women's 100 metres. The race was won by Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred, who made history for her country in 2024 when she became their first Olympic champion. LATEST HEADLINES: Price Equestrian Eventing No 1 Cooper Moore Junior Pres Cup Experienced Tall Blacks named Super Rugby semifinal teams Football Ferns Morocco draw Alfred won in a season best time of 10.77sec. Britain’s Amy Hunt, the world 200m silver medallist, was second in 10.99sec. In temperatures of just 11 degrees and wet conditions 29-year-old Hobbs started the race well but was overtaken by Hunt for second over the last 30m. Her 11.03 was her second fastest legal time of the year, surpassed only by the 11.0 she ran at the Oceania champs in Darwin, and she pronounced herself satisfied afterwards. Hobbs’ previous Diamond League podium came at last year’s Monaco meet where she also finished in third, stopping the clock at 11.12sec. The Oceania champion and record-holder will line up next in Ostrava at the Golden Spike meet (June 16) where she continues her buildup to the Commonwealth Games. It’s a happy hunting ground for the Kiwi, the site of her New Zealand and Oceania record of 10.94sec last year. In the men's 200m Australian teenage star Gout Gout finished sixth in a time of 20.60 seconds. The winner of the race was Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo from Botswana in 19.84 seconds.

Tim Price in action to the top of the FEI Eventing World Rankings PHOTO: LIBBY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY/EQUESTRIAN NZ SUPPLIED New Zealand’s Tim Price has returned to the head of the FEI Eventing world rankings following his second-place finish with Falco at last month’s British 5* at Badminton. His podium finish was despite a serious shoulder injury that required two surgeries within 16 days, the second of which was on the Monday just 48 hours before the start of the British classic. LATEST HEADLINES: Cooper Moore Junior Pres Cup Experienced Tall Blacks named Super Rugby semifinal teams Football Ferns Morocco draw NZ Breakers coaching ineup The three-time Olympian (Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024), who made his debut appearance as world No 1 at the end of May 2019 and held his advantage for a total of four months, now sits on a tally of 525, to give him a 39-point advantage over Laura Collett (GBR), up one place from the previous month. “This feels very cool, it’s a very nice feeling”, Price says. “It is something to be proud of, to be top of the rankings, and hopefully it lasts for longer than a month! Of course, the key to maintaining such a high level of performance is consistency, having good horses that are well prepared and can go and do a good job at the highest level. “It all comes down to having a great team behind me. Louella, Jess and Miles are my guys and I am very proud of their efforts. And obviously the owners, with all the horses right through, the understanding, the trust that they give to support me with competition selections and the overall plans for these horses to hopefully come to fruition. It is just all those things. And lots of years of hard graft and learning the little keys to the various horses to get the best out of them. I am very, very happy, and long may it continue.” Breaking a collarbone in a fall off his bike while competing four horses at the Dutch 4* at Oudkarspel in mid-April and undergoing surgery that night, ljust prior to the US spring 5* in Lexington, Kentucky didn't hold Price back. He still managed to finish fourth with Vitali and 16th on Global Quest. But the fixation plate holding his collarbone together had come adrift midway round the Lexington cross on his first ride, meaning a second surgery was necessary. The only option was the Monday before Badminton, but the 47-year-old still managed to ride Falco to an incredible second place. Price is one of only two New Zealanders to have headed the FEI Eventing World Rankings, the other being Andrew Nicholson, who held onto the top spot for 22 consecutive months from August 2012 to April 2014 Price previously was No 1 with an 11-month run that finished in July 2023 and a total of 16 months overall to put him fifth in the list of athletes with the highest number of times at the top, one week behind Nicholson.

Cooper Moore has been selected for the Junior Presidents Cup PHOTO: SIMON WATTS/BW MEDIA Golf New Zealand Academy member and 2025 Eisenhower Trophy representative Cooper Moore has been named in the 2026 Junior Presidents Cup International team — one of the most prestigious honours in junior golf. The 2026 Junior Presidents Cup will be held at Medinah Country Club in Chicago from September 20-21. LATEST HEADLINES: Experienced Tall Blacks named Super Rugby semifinal teams Football Ferns Morocco draw NZ Breakers coaching ineup Kerr takes Whites Ferns to win Moore, 17 a member at Clearwater Golf Club and student at St Bede’s College, secured his place in the team by ranking fifth in the International Team standings when the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifications window closed on June 4. Moore’s selection is the result of top form including earning a late call-up to the 2024 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Japan, where he finished T8 as the leading New Zealaner. Within weeks of that performance, he won the New Zealand Amateur Championship and added the Australian Boys Amateur and the 2025 Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation Junior Boys’ Championship in Hong Kong. Also testing himself in the professional ranks, Cooper won his maiden Summerset Charles Tour title at the 2025 Mount Open and finished runner-up at the 2026 New Zealand PGA Championship, winning the Sir Bob Charles Trophy as low New Zealander. New Zealand has been proud to have representation at the Junior Presidents Cup in recent years. Moore takes part as one of the International Team’s highest-ranked players and one of the most decorated junior amateurs in the Asia-Pacific region. Golf New Zealand wishes Moore all the best of success at Medinah and we can’t wait to see him take on the Americans as part of the International team. The Junior Presidents Cup is a two-day team match-play competition, run by the PGA Tour in partnership with the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA), that takes place just days before the professional Presidents Cup begins at the same venue. Twelve of the world's best junior boys (19 and under) from outside Europe face off against the top 12 Americans — mirroring the format of the professional event. The 2026 edition takes place at the iconic Medinah Country Club in Chicago on September 20–21, with International Team Captain CT Pan leading a squad drawn from seven nations including Japan, South Korea, China, Colombia, Thailand and Hong Kong, as well as New Zealand. The United States has won all four editions held since the event's inception in 2017.

Tall Black forward Sam Mennenga is one of the key players named in the New Zealand squad PHOTO: NBL The New Zealand Tall Blacks squad has been confirmed their squad for the upcoming 2027 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers against the Philippines and Guam. Headlining Judd Flavell’s squad are New Zealand Breakers’ Taylor Britt, Carlin Davison, Sam Mennenga and Reuben Te Rangi, LATEST HEADLINES: Super Rugby semifinal teams Football Ferns Morocco draw NZ Breakers coaching ineup Kerr takes Whites Ferns to win James McGarry signs to Phoenix Also included are Melbourne United’s Shea Ili and Sam Waardenburg. Those six will be joined by NBL26 players Mojave Cairns (Cairns), Taine Murray (Brisbane), Tohi Smith-Milner (Brisbane) and Tai Webster (New Zealand). Rounding out the squad are former NBL athletes Jordan Ngatai and Sam Timmins, who most recently played in Japan and Hong Kong respectively. Of this squad, Britt, Davison, Mennenga, Murray, Ngatai, Smith-Milner, Te Rangi and Timmins will all return for the second consecutive FIBA World Cup Qualifying window. Smith-Milner has the most games for New Zealand udner his belt with 81, followed by Ruben Te Rangi on 76 and Shea Ili with 73. “It’s great to have the continuity. It’s always been an important piece for any Tall Black team,” said Flavell. “Part of the reason these camps and windows are so important are because you get to work on that. “But you also get to work your pieces in and see where this team could look further down the road. There’s some great depth there across the board.” “You look at the roster we’ve constructed, and you step back and look at it and you go… wow, we’ve got a lot of guys that have worn the Tall Blacks singlet for a long time but a mix of enthusiasm with those younger guys too.” The first of the Tall Blacks’ fixtures during this window will be at Spark Arena on July 3 against the Philippines, before taking on Guam at Eventfinda Stadium on July 6. “Firstly, full respect to these two nations,” said Flavel. “When it comes to the Philippines, we seem to know a bit about each other now. “This will be our fifth match-up with them in the last two years.” The Tall Blacks currently sit in second in Pool A during qualifying, having two wins and two losses to their names. New Zealand Tall Blacks squad: Taylor Britt Carlin Davison Shea Ili Mojave King Sam Mennenga Taine Murray Jordan Ngatai Tohi Smith-Milner Reuben Te Rangi Sam Timmins Sam Waardenburg Tai Webster New Zealand Tall Blacks fixtures New Zealand v Phillipines Friday, July 3 Spark Arena, Auckland New Zealand v Guam Monday, July 6 Eventfinda Stadium, Auckland

The Chiefs host the Crusaders in the first Super Rugby semifinal PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY It's Super Rugby semis time as the Crusaders who have form at the right end of the season travel to Hamilton to face the Chiefs on Friday night. The second semif has the Hurricanes looking to continue their domination of the competition on Saturday against a Blues side who would have to score a massive upset to win. LATEST HEADLINES: Football Ferns Morocco draw NZ Breakers coaching ineup Kerr takes Whites Ferns to win James McGarry signs to Phoenix Amy Du Plessis stays with NZ There's plenty of names in and out of the lineups with players pushing to have their names in All Blacks selection. Chiefs [2] v Crusaders [3] FRI 12 JUNE: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton (19:05) The Chiefs have made several changes for Friday's semi-final against the Crusaders. Wallace Sititi and Kyle Brown (both concussions) will miss the match, leaving Lalakai Foketi and Samipeni Finau to start. Finau's elevation sees Simon Parker shift to number eight, with Foketi partnering Quinn Tupaea. Kaylum Boshier and Xavier Roe are the new faces on the bench, while Damian McKenzie is set for his 150th Super Rugby match. As for the Crusaders, their front-row stocks are boosted significantly with the return of Fletcher Newell. The tight-head is one of two changes to the team that defeated the Blues, with George Bower heading back to the bench. The other change comes in the centres as Braydon Ennor replaces Dallas McLeod (groin) as Macca Springer has been added to the bench. CHIEFS (1-15): Ollie Norris, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Sione Ahio, Josh Lord, Tupou Vaa'i, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson (c), Simon Parker, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Kyren Taumoefolau, Quinn Tupaea, Lalakai Foketi, Liam Coombes-Fabling, Isaac Hutchinson Replacements: Brodie McAlister, Jared Proffit, George Dyer, Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Kaylum Boshier, Xavier Roe, Josh Jacomb, Leroy Carter CRUSADERS (1-15): Finlay Brewis, Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, Antonio Shalfoon, Jamie Hannah, Ethan Blackadder, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Christian Lio-Willie, Noah Hotham, Taha Kemara, Sevu Reece, David Havili (c), Braydon Ennor, Chay Fihaki, Johnny McNicholl Replacements: Manumaua Letiu, Jack Sexton, George Bower, Tahlor Cahill, Dom Gardiner, Kyle Preston, Rivez Reihana, Macca Springer Referee: Angus Gardner Assistant Referees: George Myers, Matt Kellahan TMO: Graham Cooper Hurricanes [1] v Blues [4] SAT 13 JUNE: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton (19:05) The Hurricanes have one change to their starting side and it's a big one as winger Fehi Fineanganofo returns from injury. Fineanganofo takes his spot on the wing after tying the season record for most tries in a season, with a hamstring injury preventing him from breaking it Kini Naholo reverts back to the bench, while Siale Lauaki is the other new name on the bench. For the Blues, they have recalled Beauden Barrett to the starting side after his battle with a quad issue. Barrett starts at fullback in place of Zarn Sullivan (foot), with Stephen Perofeta retaining his spot at flyhalf as Finlay Christie replaces Sam Nock (hand). Hoskins Sotutu is the lone change to the starting pack, coming in for the suspended Malachi Wrampling, with Che Clark added to the bench. HURRICANES (1-15): Xavier Numia, Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Caleb Delany, Warner Dearns, Brad Shields, Du'Plessis Kirifi (co-c), Peter Lakai, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Fehi Fineanganofo, Jordie Barrett (co-c), Billy Proctor, Josh Moorby, Callum Harkin Replacements: Raymond Tuputupu, Siale Lauaki, Tyrel Lomax, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Brayden Iose, Ereatara Enari, Jone Rova, Kini Naholo BLUES (1-15): Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Bradley Slater, Marcel Renata, Patrick Tuipulotu (c), Sam Darry, Torian Barnes, Anton Segner, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Stephen Perofeta, Caleb Clarke, Xavi Taele, AJ Lam, Cole Forbes, Beauden Barrett Replacements: Eli Oudenryn, Mason Tupaea, Flyn Yates, Josh Beehre, Che Clark, Taufa Funaki, Pita Ahki, Payton Spencer Referee: Ben O'Keeffe Assistant Referees: Todd Petrie, Warwick Lahmert TMO: Richard Kelly

Football Ferns keeper Vic Easson after the draw tih Morocco in Spain PHOTO: NZ FOOTBALL SCREENSHOT The New Zealand Football Ferns have endured a goalless draw against Morocco in Malaga, Spain. The match was the first between the nations, with Morocco led by 2023 FIFA World Cup winning coach Jorge Vilda. LATEST HEADLINES: NZ Breakers coaching ineup Kerr takes Whites Ferns to win James McGarry signs to Phoenix Amy Du Plessis stays with NZ Warriors name team for Sharks The Ferns made a quick start to the friendly and forced early saves from Morocco’s goalkeeper in the opening minutes which included a curling shot from Milly Clegg just outside the box. Vic Esson’s first involvement would come soon after, the Kiwi goalkeeper smothered a dangerous Moroccan attack as the Ford Football Ferns could’ve quite easily been a goal down despite their early dominance. Esson would come to the rescue again in even more impressive fashion midway through the first half. The Ferns shot stopper making two diving saves to deny Morocco, her second stop one for the highlights reel as she spectacularly stretched to palm a long-range rocket onto the bar. Esson’s efforts ensured the match remained goalless at the break. New Zealand started the second half with intent and were nearly rewarded as Katie Kitching’s shot thundered against the crossbar. Her strike bounced close to the goal line as replays suggested the ball could have crossed the line but without VAR or goal line technology match officials weren’t able to confirm the goal. Deven Jackson followed up the resulting rebound but was unable to guide her header home. Morocco responded with a couple of warning shots of their own, but their attempts went wide of Vic Esson’s goal as the match remained goalless deep into the second half. As the margins became finer, Claudia Bunge lwas booked for a foul as Morocco mounted a threatening attack in the 78th minute. New Zealand pushed hard for a winner with fresh legs on the field. Substitute Jacqui Hand almost found the game’s winner in the 84th minute but volleyed high as Milly Clegg caused a chaos in the Moroccan penalty box. The Football Ferns finished with a loss to Haiti and a draw with Morocco, showing once again showing plenty of promise, but not the result or goals when it counted. Fulltime Football Ferns 0 Morocco 0

Sebastian Gleim is the new assistant coach at the Breakers PHOTO: NZ BREAKERS GRAPHIC The New Zealand Breakers have confirmed their full coaching lineup with Sebastian Gleim an assitant coach to reunite with new head coach Gordon Herbert. The pair had worked together when Germany won gold at the 2023 Basketball World Cup. They also worked together at club level in Frankfurt. LATEST HEADLINES: Kerr takes Whites Ferns to win James McGarry signs to Phoenix Amy Du Plessis stays with NZ Warriors name team for Sharks NZ U20s team for World Cup It's not Gleim's first time in New Zealand, he was head coach of the Franklin Bulls in the New Zealand NBL for the 2024 and 2025 seasons before he returned to Europe to become the managing director of basketball operations for his former club, the Frankfurt Skyliners, in the German Bundesliga. "My time in the NZNBL highlighted the passion, grit, and talent that exists within Kiwi basketball, so when the opportunity arose with the BNZ Breakers, it felt like a big privilege for me," said Gleim. The German said to be working again with Herbert was "fantastic". "We have achieved a lot together and share a belief in establishing a winning culture." Breakers president of basketball operations Dillon Boucher said Gleim was a strong addition to the coaching staff that includes the recently announced assistant Quinn Clinton and the retained Matt Lacey. "Sebastian knows exactly what it takes to win at the highest level of global basketball, and crucially, he already has an intimate understanding of the New Zealand basketball landscape," said Boucher. "The innate chemistry and mutual tactical trust that already exists between Gordon Herbert and Sebastian is an invaluable asset." The Breakers have one more local player to sign to the roster which already has Sam Mennenga, import Parker Jackson-Cartwright, DJ Vasiljevic, Kouat Noi. Carlin Davison, Izayah Le'Afa, Reuben Te Rangi and Preston Le Gassick. The season tips off with the Breakers' first game against the Illawarra Hawks on 20 September.

Sophie Devine made a valuable 28 runs in the White Ferns World Cup build-up win over South Africa PHOTO: ICC Captain Amelia 'Melie' Kerr’s helped take New Zealand to a winning score of 186-5 and last-gasp win over South Africa as Chloe Tryon’s rearguard hitting proved in vain in the T20 World Cup build-up at Loughborough. Laura Wolvaardt set the tone with 43 from 27 for a total of 183-5, but low scores around her meant that when Marizanne Kapp fell for 11 in the 13th over New Zealand were in the ascendancy with South Africa at 82-4. LATEST HEADLINES: James McGarry signs to Phoenix Amy Du Plessis stays with NZ Warriors name team for Sharks NZ U20s team for World Cup Wellington Phoenix new striker That wicket brought Tryon to the crease and she and Nadine de Klerk (46 from 33) produced a vital 90-run partnership. Tryon ended with 61 not out from 26 balls, hitting six sixes, before taking the first wicket as Isabella Gaze was stumped for 13 with New Zealand chasing 184. Karabo Meso picked up two more stumpings as Melie Kerr took the White Ferns into a winning position with 61 from 32 featuring nine fours and two six before she and Georgia Plimmer (38) both fell to the gloves of Meso in the space of four balls to leave New Zealand at 119 for three. Sophie Devine made a quick 28 from 13 balls before clever play from Brooke Halliday (21) and Maddy Green (19) saw them need five off the final over with Green crunching a four to seal an important win with two balls to spare. New Zealand’s title defence begins against the West Indies in Southampton on 13 June, while on the same day up in Manchester South Africa take on Australia with each game a semi-final rematch from 2024.

James McGarry seen here for the Phoen ix in 2022 is back again for the 2026 and 2027 seasons PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY Experienced fullback James McGarry, has signed on with the Phoenix for the next two A-League seasons after securing a release from the Brisbane Roar. McGarry, 28, was a key member of the Roar’s squad during the 2025-26 campaign, starting 24 of their 26 matches while scoring a goal and providing three assists. LATEST HEADLINES: Amy Du Plessis stays with NZ Warriors name team for Sharks NZ U20s team for World Cup Wellington Phoenix new striker Cama steps down from NZ 7s He won the A-League with Central Coast in 2023 and has also played for Aberdeen FC in the Scottish Premiership since making 38 appearances for the Nix during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons. Phoenix head coach Chris Greenacre is delighted to have secured McGarry’s signature. “Jimmy’s a big signing for the club,” Greenacre said. “He’s got a lot of experience and at 28 he’s in his prime and is ready to kick-on in his career. “He’s a modern fullback. He’s excellent going forward, scores goals and he’s a good defender. “Jimmy’s got speed and strength, and you can see over the years how he’s matured and grown as a player. “And ultimately, he’s a champion. Having won the A-League with the Mariners he will bring that winner’s mentality which will be a massive asset. “We’re working around the clock to try and give the fans the best squad we can put together and we’ve brought Jimmy back to the club to help the Phoenix win a title.” And James McGarry wants to bring success to his “hometown”, having been one of the first players to graduate from the Phoenix academy. “I moved to Wellington when I was 15 and I’ve probably spent five or six years living there so to me it is a second home,” McGarry said. “This will be my third spell at the club, but I think I bring a lot more this time in terms of experience. “I’ve had experience in Europe playing at a good level and I’ve also had some fantastic experiences in the A-League. “I won a championship with Central Coast, which was massive. I know what that’s like and I know what that feeling can bring to players. “I want to bring that feeling to Wellington. “I’ve got really good mates at the Phoenix and I’d love them and the whole of Wellington to feel that feeling. That’s definitely a big part of coming back home.” McGarry “loves the plan” Greenacre has for next season. “Everything he said was just what I want in a football club. The players he wants to bring in and the style he wants to play fits me. “Over the years I’ve changed my game a little bit. Last season I showed some pretty good defensive capabilities that maybe had lacked in previous seasons. “I’m a really confident defender but I also like to have that freedom to go forward and have that left side as my own. “That was pretty much what Greeny proposed to me that I’ll have that freedom to go forward, be involved in the attacking third, whipping crosses into the strikers and hopefully scoring a few goals myself. “And on top of that being in a city that I’ve lived in with fans that I’ve had behind me before makes me feel comfortable. When I’m comfortable I think I play my best football.” He also can’t wait to play in front of the Yellow Fever on a regular basis having done so only on a couple of occasions during his last stint at the Phoenix as the men were based across the ditch. “One of my last games for the Nix in Wellington was when we came back from Sydney and I think we played in front of 15 thousand. That was awesome to be able to do that. “I’m looking forward to being able to play in front of our fans week-in, week-out and do them really proud. “Hopefully we can get a lot of people in Wellington to support us. At the end of the day that’s on us to perform and play an attractive style of football that people want to come and see. “I’m really looking forward to being able to do that.” McGarry is the 16th men’s player contracted to the Wellington Phoenix for the 2026-27 A-League season, with further squad announcements to follow in the coming weeks.

Amy Du Plessis is staying with NZ Rugby seen here during the Black Ferns 2025 PAC4 series PHOTO: JOHN COWPLAND/ACTION PRESS Black Ferns and Matatū midfielder Amy Du Plessis has recommitted to New Zealand Rugby hrough to the end of 2029. The 2022 Rugby World Cup winner said an historic women’s British and Irish Lions tour next year and the opportunity to be part of a second Rugby World Cup were the driving force behind her long-term deal. LATEST HEADLINES: Warriors name team for Sharks NZ U20s team for World Cup Wellington Phoenix new striker Cama steps down from NZ 7s NZ Swim team for Glasgow 26 “I’m grateful for the opportunity to re-sign with the Black Ferns for another three years. I’m absolutely loving my rugby and feel incredibly lucky to be part of a team who has helped shape me into the player and person I am today. I love being part of this environment and look forward to continuing to learn, grow and chase success alongside such a special group. “The Lions Tour next year and the Rugby World Cup in Australia are two huge events on the horizon and will provide opportunities I really want to be part of. There’s so much to look forward to, and I’m excited to continue contributing to what this team is building. I also feel like I still have plenty more to give, which makes me even more excited about what lies ahead.” The 26-year-old has established herself in the Black Ferns midfield since scoring two tries on debut against Canada in 2022 and has gone on to play 27 Tests. Black Ferns Head Coach Whitney Hansen said Du Plessis possessed a wide range of skills and had grown into a leader within the group. “Amy is an important part of our midfield and brings a clarity and confidence to the group and how we want to play. She reads the game exceptionally well and is someone we can rely on in big moments. Beyond her athletic abilities, she cares deeply about her teammates and has a positive influence on team culture and environment. I look forward to seeing her growth over the next three years, as both a player and a leader.” Born in South Africa, Du Plessis moved to New Zealand at the age of seven before emerging through Southland Girls’ High School then rapidly into the Farah Palmer Cup with Otago and Canterbury. She has been with Matatū since the inaugural Super Rugby Aupiki season in 2022 and will add to her 20 caps for the club during the 2026 season, which kicks off on Saturday.