Black Ferns 'building for something special' on the world stage

The Black Ferns believe they are building towards something significant, and the language coming out of camp suggests a squad that has moved past simply surviving the pool stage.

Players described a group that has grown into itself over the tournament, with depth across the forward pack and genuine competition in the back three. Coach Allan Bunting has rotated widely, and the squad argue that has strengthened rather than diluted the side.

There is also an awareness of what the campaign means beyond results. Crowds at the tournament have been substantial, and the team have been explicit that visibility for the women's game is part of the job.

The test now is whether the depth converts in knockout rugby, where a single lapse ends a campaign regardless of how well the pool games went.