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New Zealand coach Darryl Suasua has named an experienced side to contest the inaugural women's sevens rugby World Cup in Dubai next month.
All but three of the 12-woman squad for the March 6-7 tournament bring international experience, having played for the New Zealand 15-a-side team.
Those who have not played for the Black Ferns are Julie Ferguson, Renee Wickliffe and Rachel Wikeepa.
Wellington's Aimee Sutorius was not available for selection after suffering a deep cut to her forehead.
"This has been a tough squad to pick, in part because this is a new challenge for our women's players and also because of the competition for places from among our experienced internationals and some new players who have put their hand up," Suasua said.
Hannah Porter will captain the side and is relishing the prospect of being the first woman to lead New Zealand into an international Sevens tournament.
"New Zealand has a proud record in women's rugby with the Black Ferns - but this sevens campaign is a whole different thing.
"We have very little experience in this version of the game and we seem to be learning a bit more every day. I just hope we will be able to hit the ground running."
New Zealand lost a qualifying tournament final to Australia in Samoa last year.
New Zealand squad
Exia Edwards (Bay of Plenty), Julie Ferguson (Hawkeb s Bay) Victoria Grant (Auckland), Carla Hohepa (Otago), Linda Itunu (Auckland), Justine Lavea (Auckland), Huriana Manuel (Auckland), Hannah Porter (Captain, Auckland), Teresa Te Tamaki (Auckland), Renee Wickliffe (Counties Manukau), Rachel Wikeepa (Waikato), Selica Winiata (Manawatu)
- NZPA
