March 10, 2026

#hakinakina: Black Ferns Sevens Hold Off Australia in Dramatic Vancouver Final

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 10, 2026

The New Zealand women’s national rugby sevens team have fought through injuries and fatigue to defeat arch-rivals Australia women’s national rugby sevens team in a dramatic final at the Vancouver leg of the HSBC SVNS Series.

Playing with a depleted squad, the Black Ferns Sevens held their nerve to secure a hard-fought victory in the tournament decider at BC Place in Canada. Several players were unavailable due to injury, leaving the side with just three reserves on the bench for the final.

Despite those setbacks, the New Zealand side produced a determined performance, leading 12-5 at halftime before Australia mounted a late comeback. With the scores tied at 17-17 in the closing minutes, the match appeared headed for a tense finish.

A late try from Alena Saili ultimately sealed the victory, giving New Zealand the edge in a contest that once again highlighted the intense rivalry between the two teams.

One of the standout performers was Jorja Miller, whose impact on the match proved decisive. Miller scored one try and helped create another, playing a crucial role in maintaining New Zealand’s strong record in Vancouver.

The victory continues the Black Ferns Sevens’ impressive run in the HSBC SVNS Series, where they have frequently met Australia in tournament finals. The trans-Tasman rivalry has become one of the defining features of the women’s sevens circuit, with both teams regularly contesting the top honours at major events.

For the New Zealand side, the Vancouver triumph was particularly significant given the challenges faced during the tournament, including injuries that tested the depth of the squad.

The win also maintains the Black Ferns Sevens’ reputation as one of the dominant forces in international rugby sevens, with the team consistently competing for titles across the global series.

The HSBC SVNS circuit now moves on to its next events, where New Zealand will look to build on its latest victory and continue its push toward another series title.