Black Ferns suffer huge setback ahead of Springbok Women showdown
INJURY UPDATE: Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu will be sidelined for the 2026 Test season after sustaining a hamstring injury while playing for Chiefs Manawa against Hurricanes Poua on June 27.
Following specialist assessment, the injury was confirmed as a hamstring tear requiring surgical repair. Tukuafu will undergo surgery this week before beginning her recovery and rehabilitation.
The injury means Tukuafu will not feature in the Black Ferns’ historic match against South Africa Women on September 5.
Black Ferns head coach Whitney Hansen said the team will continue to support Tukuafu throughout her recovery.
“We’re really feeling for Kennedy. Injuries are always tough and this is a hard setback for someone who gives so much to the Black Ferns.
“Kennedy leads with authenticity and care and her influence on this group extends well beyond what she does on the field.
“We know she’ll approach her recovery with the same resilience, professionalism and determination she shows every day. The whole Black Ferns whānau will be right behind her as she works towards her return.”
Tukuafu said she remains focused on the next stage of her recovery.
“Although I’m out of action for a while, I’m still closely involved with my team and I’m grateful for the support from my teammates, whānau and the wider rugby community.
“My focus now is on surgery, rehabilitation and doing everything I can to return to the game.”
Tukuafu has been a key member of the Black Ferns since making her debut in 2019, earning 39 Test caps and scoring six tries. She was named Black Ferns Player of the Year in 2021 and currently serves as co-captain of the national side.
