Wing Ruby Tui will play her first test for the Black Ferns since last year’s World Cup victory over England.
Tui has been named in the side for Saturday night’s test against France in Wellington in the opening match of the WXV 1 competition.
After the World Cup, Tui took up a sabbatical in the United States and missed the Black Ferns’ first four tests of 2023.
Her return is one of just two changes to the starting lineup from the Black Ferns’ last outing in September, against Australia when New Zealand successfully defended the O’Reilly Cup.
Also back in the starting lineup is fullback Renee Holmes who has recovered from a shoulder injury.
The inclusion of Holmes sees utility back Patricia Maliepo shift to the bench.
Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Simon said the team was excited for the challenge.
"France is an incredible team; they have continued to impress in their performances over the last twelve months," Black Ferns co-captain Kennedy Simon said.
"We are under no illusion of the challenge we are up against. We know they are fit, fast and are a menace over the ball.
"However, we also know that as a team we have the talent to exploit space, ability to pressure their attacking systems and trust in our team-mates to work tirelessly for one another."
In the opening match of the series, England beat Australia 42-7 in Wellington last night.
