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Sport Nation
'It's going to be a hell of a game': Hirini backs black for World Cup semi-final test
Patrick Marsters-Fonotoe • September 18th, 2025 10:15 am
Black Ferns | Photo: Photosport
Former dual international Sarah Hirini believes New Zealand’s ability to deliver when it counts could be the decisive factor in their World Cup semi-final against Canada.
The two-time Rugby World Cup winner warned that Canada’s rise makes them a dangerous opponent, but she believes the Black Ferns’ unpredictability and experience give them an edge.
“Canada have been awesome. They’re executing their game plan, they’re doing it at 100 percent,” Hirini told Sport Nation Afternoons.
Sarah Hirini | Photo: Photosport
“The biggest thing about our DNA is if we do stuff unstructured and cause mistakes, then we’ll be sweet. If our forward pack can dominate then I think we’ll do all right.”
The two-time Olympics sevens gold medallist pointed to the impact of Canada’s Sevens stars transitioning into their 15s squad, as well as their hefty pack as the biggest threat to the Ferns.
“They’ve been bolstered by quite a few of their Sevens stars who have come off a really great season. It’s going to be a hell of a game.
“They’re playing a really dominant game plan around their forwards at the moment and their forwards look extremely fit and fast.
“If they can play at that tempo and get a couple of tries up, that’s going to really hurt us."
Hirini also praised head coach Allan Bunting’s ability to instill belief within the squad and expects the Black Ferns’ Sevens converts to step up in the high-stakes clash.
“He makes you feel like you’re superhuman. He’s the best person I’ve ever had at giving players that confidence — you’ll absolutely run through a brick wall for him.
“Coming into finals games they’re going to step up, they hate losing… they’re the most competitive people I’ve ever met.”
Looking ahead, Hirini said England could be vulnerable if New Zealand make the final.
“The biggest thing is you put England under pressure at home. They’ve folded the last couple World Cups… hopefully they do it again.”
The Black Ferns face Canada in the World Cup semi-final on Saturday, September 20 at 6am (NZ time).
