Key Players to Watch in the Women’s Rugby World Cup

The Women’s Rugby World Cup, set to take place in September, promises an exciting showcase of talent from numerous countries. While England is favored to clinch the trophy, teams from Ireland, Wales, and Scotland will bring formidable players to the field. But beyond the home nations, several international athletes are poised to make significant impacts. Here is a look at the global stars to keep an eye on during the tournament.

Front Row Powerhouses

Hope Rogers (United States)

The US prop, Hope Rogers, has established herself as a formidable presence in women’s rugby. With significant performances for Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership, she was named in the league’s team of the year consecutively for two seasons. At 32, she is the most-capped female player for the Eagles and stands ready for her fourth World Cup appearance.

Katalina Amosa (Australia)

A rising star in the Australian team, Katalina Amosa made her Test debut just this past May but has quickly garnered attention. After starting four out of five Tests, including matches against notable teams like New Zealand and Canada, this 23-year-old hooker has shown promising potential.

DaLeaka Menin (Canada)

Further accentuating Canada’s prop strength, DaLeaka Menin joined Exeter Chiefs in 2021 and was pivotal in a memorable victory against world champions New Zealand. Her performance in the Pacific Four Series and physical play style solidifies her as a key player to watch.

Strong Locks

Manae Feleu (France)

Co-captain Manae Feleu has proven essential for France with remarkable contributions during the Women’s Six Nations, completing multiple turnovers and line-out steals. At 25, she stands poised to elevate her team’s World Cup aspirations.

Michaela Leonard (Australia)

Returning for another World Cup after having previously captained her country, Michaela Leonard has demonstrated her capability to disrupt opposing line-outs, evidenced by her performance against Canada. She has valuable experience from her time at Exeter Chiefs in England.

Dynamic Back Row Players

Sophie de Goede (Canada)

Having led Canada to the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, Sophie de Goede is known for her powerful carries and goal-kicking abilities. After recovering from an ACL injury, she is eager to showcase her skills on the world stage again.

Kennedy Tukuafu (New Zealand)

Co-captain of the Black Ferns, Kennedy Tukuafu helped secure the World Cup title in 2022. Her agility and resilience will be crucial as she fights to help her team repeat their success this year.

Aseza Hele (South Africa)

Hele has shown tremendous growth following her World Cup selection in 2022. After attracting interest from Harlequins, her powerful performances indicate she can dominate in the upcoming matches.

Game Changers in the Backline

Pauline Bourdon Sansus (France)

Regularly considered among the best scrum-halves globally, Pauline Bourdon Sansus can change the flow of a game with her unpredictability and strong kicking game. Her notable performances in recent Six Nations matches keep her at the forefront of attention.

Ruahei Demant (New Zealand)

A key figure in the Black Ferns’ World Cup triumph in 2022, Ruahei Demant also earned recognition as World Rugby’s player of the year. Her experience will be essential for leading her team effectively through high-pressure situations during the tournament.

Talented Wings and Centers

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand)

Renowned as one of the greatest female rugby players, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has an impressive track record with 20 World Cup tries. Her return from retirement highlights her enduring talent and capability to score effectively.

Kelly Arbey (France)

The 20-year-old wing, Kelly Arbey, has showcased her electric pace and the ability to create opens. Her recent performances in the Six Nations underline her growing status in international rugby.

Alex Tessier (Canada)

As a versatile player, Alex Tessier can perform at both fly-half and inside center. Captain of the Canadian team, she brings experience and skill, aiming to make a mark in the World Cup.

Ilona Maher (United States)

Having gained popularity with an impressive social media following, Ilona Maher is a formidable center who adds a dynamic element to the US team. As they face England in the opening match, all eyes will be on her performance.

Emerging Stars

Claudia Pena (Spain)

Despite her youth, 20-year-old Claudia Pena has shown promise with sharp acceleration and strong contact skills. As Spain prepares for challenging early matches against New Zealand and Ireland, her development will be crucial for the team.

As the tournament unfolds, these players are set to make their mark and contribute significantly to their respective teams’ prospects. With an impressive array of talent on display, the Women’s Rugby World Cup is anticipated to be a thrilling competition, demonstrating the immense skill present in women’s rugby today.