Black Ferns legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has announced she is coming out of international retirement as she eyes a third Rugby World Cup campaign.
The 33-year-old has signed an eight-month contract with New Zealand Rugby fresh off her title-winning Super Rugby Aupiki campaign with the Blues.
Woodman-Wickliffe had retired from international rugby after winning gold at Paris Olympics last year but had a change of heart midway through the Aupiki season.
"By week three of Aupiki I was at 50% of my decision. Each week in campaign I thought about the possibility of how I could potentially go to the World Cup more and more," she said in a statement.
"I thought about what it would mean to me but most importantly my whānau. I needed time to process everything and making myself available for this team is where I’ve landed."
Black Ferns director of performance Allan Bunting said Woodman-Wickliffe was an "exceptional human" and would enhance the team environment.
"Her natural ability to inspire others, her amazing athleticism, knowledge of the game and skillset will have a huge influence on all those around here. I’m really looking forward to seeing her contribution to the team."
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson said it was "really exciting news in a pinnacle year for women's rugby".
"Portia is a true great of the game in both XVs and sevens. Her experience, talent and high standards will add an extra edge to the Black Ferns environment."
Woodman-Wickliffe has signed an eight-month contract and is set to join the Black Ferns in their first assembly this weekend.
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