Black Ferns great Kelly Brazier calls time on international rugby

Kelly Brazier's trophy haul includes two Rugby World Cups, Olympic and Commonwealth Games titles and two Sevens World Cups. Photo / Photosport

Black Ferns legend Kelly Brazier has announced her retirement from international rugby after 18 years at the top level, including two Rugby World Cup titles and Olympic gold.

Widely regarded as one of the most versatile playmakers in New Zealand, Brazier has made a significant contribution to women’s rugby during an illustrious playing career across XVs and sevens.

With 44 tests for the Black Ferns, the two-time Rugby World Cup winner became the second woman to play in four World Cups in England last year, completing a remarkable return from injury to play her first test since 2021.

Her trophy haul also includes two Sevens World Cup titles, seven World Series sevens titles, Olympic and Commonwealth gold medals, silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics, bronze at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and silver at the Sevens World Cup that same year.

Now 36, Brazier said she knew it was time for the next chapter of her career.

“I reached a point where both my body and mind started to feel the wear and tear, and I wanted to step away while I could still contribute at my best.

“Growing up in New Zealand, I was like any other kid with a dream of representing my country and playing at the Olympics. To have done that not just once, but multiple times, is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s truly been an honour and privilege to represent New Zealand and something I’ll always hold close to my heart.

“My journey wasn’t always smooth sailing, but it was during those challenging moments that I learned the most about myself and what I was capable of. The experiences, the lessons, and the people I’ve met along the way are things I’ll carry with me always, and I am thankful for every moment spent in the Black Ferns jersey.”

Off the field, Brazier has been working with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) to help develop her as a coach. Most recently, she was an assistant coach at the Global Youth Sevens and with the New Zealand Development Sevens team. She has also been appointed Chiefs Manawa assistant coach in this year’s Super Rugby Aupiki. Before this, she was Brave Louvre Club assistant coach in Japan for the Taiyo Seimei Women’s Sevens Series.

“My retirement decision came with exciting opportunities to transition into coaching, something that has always been a passion of mine, and it felt like the perfect time to embrace the next challenge and share the knowledge I’ve gained with the next generation of players,” Brazier said.

Black Ferns Sevens head coach Cory Sweeney paid tribute, saying, “Kelly is a true professional with world-class habits, a competitive mindset that never breaks and a rugby IQ up with the best in the world. It has been an absolute privilege working alongside her to reach the milestones she has.

“When I think of Kelly, training ethic and a heart to match is what stands out. She has not only been world-class on the field, but her willingness to support, house and nurture future athletes is also a great attribute of hers. Kelly is a wahine trailblazer, leaving a legacy and pathway for the next generation.”

The Black Ferns will head to the United States in April, with fixtures confirmed today for the Pacific Four Series.

They will face the hosts, the Women Eagles, at Heart Health Park in Sacramento with kickoff on Sunday, April 12, at 11am NZT before facing Canada in Kansas City the following Saturday.