New Zealand: Portia Woodman-Wickliffe retires from international rugby for a second time

New Zealand top scorer Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has announced her retirement from international rugby for a second time.

The 34-year-old winger helped the Black Ferns win the Women’s World Cup in 2017 and 2022, initially retiring after claiming a second gold medal in the rugby sevens at the 2024 Olympics.

She returned for last year’s World Cup in England, but her bid for a third successive title was halted in the semi-finals by Canada – before New Zealand beat France to finish third.

Woodman-Wickliffe was already the all-time World Cup record holder and extended her tally to 22 with two tries for England.

Her score in the win over Japan was her 50th international try and meant she passed Doug Howlett to become New Zealand’s outright record try scorer.

The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year will retire from international rugby sevens and rugby XVs.

“I am very grateful to have the opportunity to represent my country [people]“One last time on the World Cup stage, a moment I will cherish forever,” she said in a message on social media., external.

“As I step into this next chapter of my life, I’m excited and a little nervous, but I’m ready.”