Portia Woodman-Wickliffe keen to tackle new role in Black Ferns comeback
Tuesday, 22 April 2025
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has her sights on the No. 13 jersey after coming out of international retirement to help the Black Ferns defend the Rugby World Cup.
The 33-year-old has made her name as a destructive winger, scoring the most tries in World Cup history (20).
But she has experienced a new lease on life after being used at centre for the champion Blues during the Super Rugby Aupiki season, the catalyst for her shock U-turn.
Woodman-Wickliffe said she has embraced the challenge of learning a new position late in her career and the chance to add another string to her bow, and believed she could provide a point of difference in the No. 13 jersey.
“I love centre because I’m not on the wing having to chase down those really fast girls out wide,” Woodman-Wickliffe said.
“I think the last time I played 13 for the Black Ferns was in 2017 in Ireland. It was a long time ago. This time I’m lucky enough to play alongside Ruahei [Demant], who has so much knowledge.
“She can put anyone into a hole, she can communicate and knows everyone’s strengths, and I think that’s why I did so well there.
“What do I offer? I guess I have a different aspect of a bit of speed and a bit of power, not so much a ball game but I’m still learning and really excited about that part.”
Woodman-Wickliffe’s positional switch could create a selection headache for coach Allan Bunting, with Stacey Waaka and Theresa Setefano – the midfield pairing from the 2022 World Cup – returning from the highly-successful Black Ferns Sevens programme as well.
Rising star Sylvia Brunt and Amy du Plessis were also part of the Black Ferns’ World Cup campaign three years ago, while first five-eighth and co-captain Ruahei Demant has been used primarily at second five-eighth for club and country over the past 12 months.
Bunting welcomed Woodman-Wickliffe’s return and said her ability to cover multiple positions would make her an even more valuable asset.
Woodman-Wickliffe has signed an eight-month contract with New Zealand Rugby, committing through to the World Cup in August and September.
“You’ve seen her grow in that position, especially around her defensive reads,” Bunting said.
“We’ve got some pretty awesome midfielders but the cool thing is players know who is coming [back in] so you’ve seen a real rise in performance.
“It definitely helps if you can cover positions with quality, especially with the bench. Being able to play in one position does limit you a little bit.
“If you can only play one position you’ve got to be pretty good, especially with the talent we have in the outside [backs] at the moment.”