Black Ferns legend comes out of retirement ahead of Rugby World Cup

Just one week after winning the Super Rugby Aupiki with the Blues, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has announced her return to the international stage.

She revealed she has her sights set on a third Rugby World Cup, taking place in the UK later this year.

In an Instagram post, Portia said: "Well, that didn't last long😜." 

"I had an amazing time with my @bluesrugbyteam crew, and I'm not ready to say goodbye yet,” she added.

“I'm excited to announce that I've signed a Black Ferns contract and put my hand up for the Rugby World Cup this year."

Portia has dominated the world stage for years, already having won two Women's Rugby World Cups, three Olympic medals (two gold, one silver), and two Commonwealth Games medals to her name.

Plus, she holds the record for the most tries scored at any Rugby World Cup.

It had been rumoured that Woodman-Wickliffe was set to sign with the Newcastle Knights and play in this year’s NRLW competition.

Due to being an ambassador of the Women's Rugby World Cup, her contract with the NRLW was disallowed, leaving fans to wonder where the superstar player would go next.

The return to Aupiki gave her the nudge she needed to make herself available for the Black Ferns, saying: "By week three of Aupiki, I was at 50 per cent of my decision."

In a video posted to the Black Ferns Instagram, Portia explained her reason to retire from sevens: "It was based around having babies. 2025 was about exploring as many opportunities as I could so that when I do end up having them, I can say I've tried as much as I can."

NZR Head of Women's High Performance, Hannah Porter, said: "It's exciting to have someone of her calibre in the Black Ferns. She's one of the most globally recognised names in women's rugby and an incredible ambassador for the game."

While the full squad is yet to be announced, our Black Ferns are shaping up to have one of their strongest teams yet, with the inclusion of fellow Sevens teammates Stacey Waaka, Theresa Fitzpatrick, Alena Saili, Dhys Faleafaga, Kelsey Teneti, Risi Pouri-Lane, and Jorja Miller.

We can’t wait to support the Black Ferns wāhine in their first match of the season, when they take on Australia in Christchurch on May 17.