May I first recommend a splendid piece by Rikki Swannell just posted on rugbypass.com?
In the process we learn details about Ruahei Demant’s move to Bristol that were known to only a few.
For example, Bristol made a move to engage the Black Ferns’ co-captain long before the World Cup. That may well have been due in part to Holly Aitchison’s intended departure for Sale Sharks. But who would not want to sign on one of the world’s best players?
Despite possessing some leading lights Bears are still a move or two short of boasting a squad capable of securing a first trophy.
From Demant’s angle there were quite different issues at stake. Like other experienced performers she felt the need for a change from familiar routines. The greatest players know there is always more to learn about the game. New challenges must be met.
Although Ashton Gate was the setting for the Black Ferns’ worst experience at the RWC, Demant now has the chance of viewing the stadium, the club and the city in a more favourable light.
The Black Ferns’ outlook
Swannell touches on the sensitive matter of Allan Bunting’s departure. Demant is diplomatic in stressing the huge contribution he has made to women’s rugby across many years.
But she admits preparations for the RWC were inadequate. We may then wonder what would have been the sensible answer. The simplest surely would have been another European tour, similar to 2021.
That’s where we may doubt NZR’s total commitment to the BF cause. While the All Blacks travel the world – they’ve just completed an Autumn Series in the northern hemisphere – was a tour of any sort proposed for the Ferns?
The introduction of a global calendar was likely to cause problems, and it did.
In NZ the Super Aupiki was pushed back till later in the year, and the Pacific Four Series doesn’t start till April. That leaves a huge gap in Kiwi diaries, except for the few Ferns who have switched back to Sevens (starting this weekend).
Could we yet see more Ferns enticed over to England (or even France) to fill the gap?
Immediate prospects
On Sunday Bears have a needle match against Gloucester-Hartpury at Ashton Gate. Unfortunately Demant isn’t due to arrive till this same weekend, so Bears’ fans will have to save the red carpet for later.
It’s an irony that the next fixture is against Chiefs at Sandy Park. The Ferns have already played there no fewer than three times. The first was a devastating loss to England at the start of that same 2021 tour (0-4). At least the next two visits were far more productive, comfortable wins against Japan and South Africa in the RWC.
We may yet see another bumper crowd flocking in for that PWR contest. Can the great Kiwi No 10 really inspire the Bears?
Ever so gradually, women’s global rugby is coming closer together.
