Fourth Straight in Hong Kong: Black Ferns Sevens Outlast Australia in 50th Anniversary Thriller

The Black Ferns Sevens secured their fourth straight Hong Kong title and sixth of the season with a 19-14 victory over rivals Australia.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 8:46 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: Grit and Heart at the "Home of Sevens"

In a classic trans-Tasman showdown, the Black Ferns Sevens scored three tries to Australia's two to secure the win. Mahina Paul, Jorja Miller, and Kelsey Teneti all touched down for New Zealand, providing just enough cushion to withstand a late Australian surge. Player of the Final Risi Pouri-Lane praised the squad's resilience: "The girls showed grit and heart and it took a whole squad effort." The victory keeps New Zealand’s women at the top of the overall 2026 World Championship standings.

Background and Strategic Context: The Road to the World Title

The 2026 Sevens World Championship is determined by a cumulative points system across three premier events.

Round 1 (Hong Kong): Completed. New Zealand (Women) and South Africa (Men) take maximum points.

Round 2 (Spain): Scheduled for May 29-31 in Valladolid.