Black Ferns by the Numbers: Pacific Four Champions
All BlacksMay 27, 2025
The Black Ferns reclaimed their Pacific Four title in emphatic fashion with a 79–14 win over the USA at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday.
New Zealand finished the tournament unbeaten, with two wins and a draw, including a thrilling 27–27 result against Canada. Both teams ended the Pacific Four Series tied on 13 competition points, but the Black Ferns claimed the title thanks to a superior points differential of +91 compared to Canada’s +50. Across their three matches, the Black Ferns scored 144 points and conceded 53.
Woodman-Wickliffe Leads the Way
Veteran winger Portia Woodman-Wickliffe showed her class throughout the campaign, finishing as the competition's top try-scorer with seven tries – all scored in the final match against USA. Her powerful carries and finishing instincts were key features of the Black Ferns’ high-octane attack. Woodman-Wickliffe also ranked first on defenders beaten (7.7 per match) and fourth on line breaks with an average of 2.2 per match.
Forwards Lay the Platform
The tight five laid a strong foundation, winning 93.1% of scrums compared to opposition teams who won 81%. Turnovers were also an area of strength for the Black Ferns with an average of 6 turnovers won per game compared to 3.7 turnovers by opposition. Kaipo Olsen-Baker was industrious with ball in hand, making a tournament high average of 22 carries per game.
All about the set up
The Black Ferns also dominated the ‘try assist’ category with four players in the top five for most try assists. Stacey Waaka was first with four try assists per game while Jorja Miller produced three try assists on her debut match against USA to give a glimpse at her promise. Theresa Setefano averaged 2.5 per match and Hannah King 2.4. Canada’s Florence Siymonds was the only non-Black Fern in the top five with 2 try assists per game.
Defence with Bite
The Black Ferns completed the most tackles of any team in the competition with an average tackle success rate of 82.5% per game. Kate Henwood was the standout with an average of 5.8 dominant tackles per game. Tanya Kalounivale was second with an average of 3.7 dominant tackles per game.
Title Secured, Eyes on the Future
With the Pacific Four Series title secured, the Black Ferns have reaffirmed their position among the world’s best. The series served as a key building block in their preparations for the upcoming Rugby World Cup and gave selectors and fans alike a glimpse into the squad's exciting depth and firepower.
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