If New Zealand Rugby are successful in their bid to host the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup, this weekend's fixture between the Black Ferns and Wallaroos at Eden Park could play a vital role.
New Zealand's is one of six bids for the rights to host the 2021 tournament, alongside Australia, England, France, Portugal and Wales. Knowing the Eden Park fixture – which is the first match of a double-header with the respective men's sides – has sold out, Black Ferns vice-captain Kendra Cocksedge said there was "no doubt" World Rugby would be keeping a keen eye on the turnout.
"We want people to get down there earlier because those types of things will help with us being able to host the next World Cup," Cocksedge said.
"The more we get down there nice and early, it looks good for New Zealand Rugby and obviously that's what we want in the future – to host that World Cup."
The world No.1 Black Ferns won the first encounter against the Wallaroos last weekend in Sydney by a flattering 31-11 scoreline. The Australian side impressed with their defence throughout the contest, but a hat-trick to Black Ferns captain Fiao'o Fa'amausili – all from lineout drives – pushed the margin out considerably.