Black Ferns v Canada: No changes as Tanya Kalounivale cleared to play after red card overturned

Tanya Kalounivale has been cleared to play for the Black Ferns against Canada. Photo / Photosport

The Black Ferns have received a big lift in their front row stocks ahead of their clash with Canada in Kansas City on Saturday.

After being sent off for a cleanout infringement in last weekend’s win over the United States in Sacramento, New Zealand tighthead prop Tanya Kalounivale has had her red card overturned and is free to play.

The most experienced prop in Whitney Hansen’s squad for the Pacific Four Series, Kalounivale has again been named on the bench as the side prepare to take on the world No 2 Canadians.

“Having reviewed the available footage and additional angles, the Committee determined that the action did not warrant a red card,” World Rugby said of the disciplinary committee’s decision.

“The Committee found that there was not a high degree of danger in the action and therefore, under the Head Contact Process, a red card should not have been issued.”

With the 28-test veteran available for selection, there were no changes to Hansen’s side from that which beat the United States 48-15.

“Our focus is on us and the upcoming opportunity to refine our rugby identity,” Hansen said.

“We know Canada are a physical and accurate side, and we’re looking forward to matching the intensity to put on a consistent, disciplined performance we can be proud of.

“Both teams are coming off the back of growing performances, so fans in the USA and back home can expect an entertaining contest.”

Prop Marcelle Parkes has also joined the Black Ferns camp in Missouri as an injury replacement for loosehead Awhina Tangen-Wainohu, who reaggravated an existing neck injury last week and has returned home.

The Black Ferns last met Canada in the semi-finals of last year’s Rugby World Cup in England, where the Canadians eliminated the New Zealand side with a 34-19 win.

In last year’s Pacific Four Series, the sides drew 27-27, with the Black Ferns ultimately going on to win the title.

Black Ferns team to play Canada

1. Chryss Viliko (20)

2. Georgia Ponsonby (38)

3. Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu (4)

4. Maiakawanakaulani Roos (39)

5. Laura Bayfield (7)

6. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u (36)

7. Kennedy Tukuafu (35) – co-captain

8. Kaipo Olsen-Baker (17)

9. Maia Joseph (17)

10. Ruahei Demant (52) – co-captain

11. Ayesha Leti-I’iga (31)

12. Logo-I-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai’i Sylvia Brunt (30)

13. Amy Du’Plessis (23)

14. Mererangi Paul (15)

15. Renee Holmes (30)

Bench:

16. Vici-Rose Green (6)

17. Maddison Robinson (1)

18. Tanya Kalounivale (28)

19. Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu (8)

20. Mia Anderson (1)

21. Tara Turner (1)

22. Hannah King (11)

23. Justine McGregor (1)