Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025: Key Updates and What to Expect
The countdown to the Women’s Rugby World cup 2025 is on. Here’s a extensive look at the latest developments, from thrilling match results to team spotlights and key players to watch.
Thrilling Draw Between World No. 2 and No. 3 Teams
Rugby fans were treated to a nail-biting preview of what’s to come at the Rugby World Cup 2025 as Canada and New Zealand battled to a 27-27 draw. The match, held in Christchurch, saw New Zealand’s Sylvia Brunt score a try in the 83rd minute, salvaging a draw for the reigning world champions.
Canada, ranked second in the world, nearly secured a second consecutive victory over New Zealand, who are ranked third. The Black Ferns, however, maintain a slight lead in the Pac Four table due to points difference. New Zealand will face the USA on saturday, May 24, in the final match of this year’s series.
Australia Gains Edge Over USA Ahead of Pool A Clash
Australia defeated the USA 27-19 in the Pacific Four Series, potentially gaining a psychological advantage before their Rugby World cup 2025 Pool A match in York on saturday, August 30. The match in Canberra drew a large crowd and showcased intense competition.
Despite taking an early lead, the USA, featuring star player Ilona Maher at 13, couldn’t match Australia’s precision. Olympic sevens star Charlotte Caslick stood out, scoring her first Wallaroos try.
Canada Boosted by De Goede’s Imminent Return
Canada’s rugby team is riding high, currently ranked second globally, thanks to a strong 2024 and a promising start to 2025. The team’s prospects are set to improve further with the nearing return of squad captain Sophie de Goede.
De goede, a goal-kicking back-row forward and a World Rugby’s 2024 dream Team pick, is recovering from an ACL injury that sidelined her from last year’s Olympic Games.She now has a new mission: to lead canada in the Rugby World Cup 2025, starting with their Pool B fixture against Fiji on August 23.
Experienced Referee Panel Announced for RWC 2025
World Rugby has confirmed the roster of 22 Emirates Match Officials
for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. The panel includes officials from 12 nations, featuring the four moast-capped female referees in test history.
The group boasts over 350 test match appearances. Sara Cox of England is set to participate in her fifth Women’s Rugby World Cup. Zimbabwe’s Precious Pazani will be the first African female official from outside South Africa to participate, and Maria Heitor will be Portugal’s first representative. Full details here.
World Cup Trophy Tour Underway
The new Women’s Rugby World Cup Trophy is currently on a tour of England,engaging fans of all ages. Following its unveiling in London, the trophy visited Brighton, one of the eight RWC 2025 venues, making appearances in various locations.
Keep an eye on the Rugby World cup social media channels for updates on the three-week tour.
Team Spotlight: Spain
Spain is heading to its seventh Women’s Rugby World Cup with high hopes. Their participation coincides with their nation’s surge to the sport’s top table.
In a year where their men’s sevens team reached the podium in the HSBC SVNS series and their 15s counterparts secured their participation at Rugby World Cup 2027, the women’s team is set to shine.
Drawn in Pool C alongside Japan, Ireland, and New Zealand, the reigning Rugby Europe champions, led by Laura Delgado, are confident they can cause upsets and advance.
Player Spotlight: Pauline Bourdon-Sansus (France)
Pauline Bourdon-Sansus, the dynamic scrum-half with 61 caps, was nominated for World Rugby’s Player of the Year award in 2024. Her performance during the 2025 Six Nations, including a narrow defeat to England, highlights her exceptional form.
France’s Pool D opponents-Italy,South Africa,and Brazil-have been duly warned.
Flashback: Alison Miller’s Try Sends Ireland Wild in 2014
Ireland, after defeating the reigning world champions and finishing third twice in the Six nations, may not need much motivation for their RWC 2025 campaign, which begins against Japan on August 24.
However, for a reminder of their potential, revisit Alison Miller’s memorable try from RWC 2014, which secured a important win over New Zealand.
Black Ferns fans might want to look away…
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Pro Tip
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