Matatu
Captain: Alana Bremner.
Key forward: Flanker Kendra Reynolds made a late switch from the Chiefs and brings a physical game and relentless hunger that will be appreciated by the coaching staff.
Key back: First five Arabella McKenzie was named Australian Super W player of the year. She has a great kicking game and likes to run when she gets an opportunity.
The oil: Mostly made up of a dominant Canterbury team. Will look to outlast opponents and pounce in the final quarter of games.
Hurricanes Poua
Captain: Sarah Hirini.
Key forwards: Prop Isadore Leio-Laupola is tough and so is No 8 Kaipo Olsen-Baker. But lock Joanah Ngan-Woo really puts the hard in hard work.
Key back: There is a lot of talent in the backline but it is impossible to look further than former Black Fern Selicia Winiata. She has pace, experience and an eye for the chalk.
The oil: The Canes have a ragtag look in the sense the players are from all over the country. But in Hirini they have a wonderful leader to help pull it all together.
Chiefs Manawa
Captain: Les Elder.
Key forwards: Black Ferns Kelsie Wills (lock) and Grace Houpapa-Barrett (hooker) will be key to the Chiefs getting parity up front to help unleash that star-studded backline.
Key backs: They’ve got a Portia (Woodman) in a Rolls Royce backline but watch out for Otago’s Maia Joseph. The halfback really improved her game last year and is on the rise. We also love Ruby Tui.
The oil: Seventeen past or present Black Ferns. Firm favourites. But can they secure enough ball for the glamour players out wide?
Blues
Captain: Aroha Savage.
Key forwards: Black Ferns loose forward Liana Mikaele-Tu’u takes some tackling and was one of the few to impress on the northern tour, and Savage’s return is a big boost for the Blues.
Key back: Sevens star Tyla Nathan-Wong does not have a lot of experience in the 15-woman game but her fitness, pace and X-factor will be a huge asset.
The oil: Were bossed by the Chiefs in a historic game last year and really struggled at the breakdown. Plenty of talent, though.
