Lock Maama Mo'onia Vaipulu and halfback Maia Joseph will become dual internationals, when they make their Black Ferns debut against USA in the Pacific Four opener on Saturday.
Vaipulu will double up, after representing New Zealand in volleyball, while Joseph has previously played for her country in touch. Both have been named in the starting XV to face the Americans at Hamilton, while rookie first-five Hannah King is poised for her debut off the bench.
"Each of these ladies have continued to impress us since joining the Black Ferns squad," said coach Allan Bunting. "They have worked diligently and it's awesome to be able to reward them with this opportunity and enjoy the occasion.
"It will be a special moment for them and their whānau, and one they should be proud of. We are all excited for them and have their backs this weekend."
First-five Ruahei Demant and flanker Kennedy Simon have retained their roles as co-captains.
"We have seen consistency in a few areas we have been working through and we are looking forward to seeing this in our opening test," said Bunting. "Our coaching group have been pleased with the intent and focus our squad have been putting in.
"We know our ladies are eager to kick off their international season and take on the USA in front of our fans at home."
The NZ women last faced the United States at Ottawa, Canada, last year, prevailing 39-17.
Black Ferns: 1-Kate Henwood, 2-Georgia Ponsonby, 3-Tanya Kalounivale, 4-Maiakawanakaulani Roos, 5-Maama Mo'onia Vaipulu, 6-Liana Mikaele Tu'u, 7-Kennedy Simon (cc), 8-Layla Sae, 9-Maia Joseph, 10-Ruahei Demant (cc), 11-Katelyn Vahaakolo, 12-Logo-i-Pulotu Lemapu-Atai'i (Sylvia) Brunt, 13-Amy du Plessis, 14-Ruby Tui, 15-Mererangi Paul
Reserves: 16-Luka Connor, 17-Chryss Viliko, 18-Amy Rule, 19-Charmaine Smith, 20-Kaipo Olsen-Baker, 21- Iritana Hohaia, 22-Hannah King, 23-Patrica Maliepo
Join Newshub at 2pm Saturday for live updates of the Black Ferns v USA Pacific Four clash
