News

Counties Energy Heat star Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu has been named as captain of the Black Ferns for their final pool match at the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

The 11-test halfback will skipper the side against Scotland at Northland Events Centre in Whangarei on Saturday.

It is fitting that the 30-year-old gets the honour having grown up in Northland before moving south and finding a home in Counties Manukau.

She attended Okaihau College and played rugby at the Ohaeawai Rugby Club, in addition to the 160 games she's played for current club Manurewa.

Marino-Tauhinu will start at halfback alongside long-time provincial teammate and fellow Counties Energy representative Hazel Tubic.

“The last time we played up here in Whangarei, Arihiana started and was player of the match; she deserves this start,” Director of Rugby Wayne Smith said.

“She is in our leadership group and is already a respected leader in the team, so we have full confidence in her captaining the side on Saturday.”

The Black Ferns are already guaranteed a spot in the quarter-finals.

Saturday’s game against Scotland kicks off at 4.45pm.