Article content

Captain Kelly Russell leads a strong Canadian team against top-ranked New Zealand on Friday in a preview of their Women’s Rugby World Cup showdown in August.

Friday’s match in Wellington, New Zealand, comes on Day 1 of the International Women’s Rugby Series, which features the top three women’s sides in the world plus No. 6 Australia.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Canadian women face showdown in New Zealand ahead of Rugby World Cup Back to video

The third-ranked Canadian women face the Black Ferns at Westpac Stadium, known as the Cake Tin for its circular design. Also Friday, No. 2 England plays the Wallaroos at Wellington’s Porirua Park.

Canada, which has never beaten New Zealand in 12 tries, faces England on June 13 in Christchurch.

With just three days between games, the New Zealand tournament mirrors the tight schedule of the World Cup.

For Canadian coach Francois Ratier, it’s a chance to test his squad against elite opposition prior to the Aug. 7 start of the Rugby World Cup.

For his players, it’s a chance to showcase their skills on a big rugby stage. Friday’s match is a doubleheader with the Super League showdown between the Hurricanes and Chiefs. The June 17 tournament finale against England at Rotorua International Stadium will be followed by the high-profile match between the Maori All Blacks and British and Irish Lions.