Champ Bosnam a boost for Tuis

Hawke's Bay 13 Otago 12
Propping up the Hawke's Bay Tuis women's rugby team's scrum is a long way from working on the oil rigs off the coast of Australia.
But two-time world champion Black Ferns prop Mel Bosnam (formerly Ngatai) was happy for the change of scenery as the Tuis recorded their first win in this season's NPC with a 13-12 victory against Otago in Dunedin on Saturday.
It was her first outing for the Tuis since 2006.
"That was also my first outing since the Black Ferns World Cup final in England last September," said Bosnam as she reflected on her second half contribution off the bench.
"I'm a benchwarmer these days but my boots are always with me ... it's been that way since I was four.
"Fortunately, we've got a fitness trainer on the rigs and I've been able to keep reasonably fit ... but there's nothing like match fitness," explained Bosnam.
When Bosnam, 35, isn't working on the oil rigs she lives with her husband in Oamaru.
In the wake of several Black Ferns' retirements she offered her services to Black Ferns coach Grant Hansen and he suggested she play in the NPC to prepare for international duty.
"Obviously, living in Oamaru Canterbury was the closest union. But, like Auckland, Canterbury are strong so I thought it would be good to help the Tuis out," explained Bosnam.
"I'll be pushing a pram by the time of the next World Cup. But it's important new Black Ferns have some old heads helping them out this year," said Bosnam who has been a Black Fern since 2004.
She was thrilled with the improvement made by the Tuis since their 60-0 loss to Canterbury the previous week when Bosnam was a spectator.
Tuis coach, Cheryl Heremia, was also delighted with the improvement displayed by her troops.
But, at the same time, she pointed out the Tuis could have lost to Otago had their hosts converted their late try.
"Mel's contribution off the bench gave us a big boost. But, really, it was a solid team effort and I wouldn't like to single any individuals out," said Heremia.
Her players led 8-7 at halftime. Halfback Kate Bradshaw and former Black Ferns utility back Amy Williams, playing at fullback, scored tries and first five-eighth Sylvia Bockman kicked a penalty.