New Zealand Dominates Ireland 40-0 to Top Women's World Cup Pool C

The New Zealand Black Ferns secured top spot in Pool C of the Women's Rugby World Cup with a dominant 40-0 victory over Ireland, highlighted by Braxton Sorensen-McGee's hat-trick of tries. The team made strategic lineup changes for the match, including the return of Liana Mikaele-Tu’u at No. 8 and Renee Holmes at fullback, while Ayesha Leti-I’iga came back from an ankle injury to join the bench. Coach Allan Bunting emphasized the importance of consistency and cohesion as the tournament progresses, with several players returning to their preferred positions to maintain team strength. Kennedy Tukuafu resumed co-captaincy duties from the bench, and the front row and locking pairs remained unchanged, ensuring experience in key areas. The victory not only avenged a previous loss to Ireland but also positioned New Zealand favorably for a theoretically easier quarter-final opponent, to be determined after the South Africa-France match. The Black Ferns have been praised for their tactical adjustments and world-class performance facilities in Brighton, setting a strong foundation for their World Cup campaign.