Kaipo Olsen-Baker has been named the world's best women's 15s player, while rising star Elinor-Plum King has claimed the breakthrough award, giving New Zealand two major...
Kaipo Olsen-Baker has been named the world's best women's 15s player, while rising star Elinor-Plum King has claimed the breakthrough award, giving New Zealand two major international honours in Christchurch.
By Webfit News Sports Desk | 1 November 2026
New Zealand women's rugby has celebrated a remarkable double achievement, with Black Ferns stars Kaipo Olsen-Baker and Elinor-Plum King claiming two of World Rugby's highest individual honours for 2026.
Olsen-Baker was named World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year, while King received the World Rugby Women's 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year award.
Both players were surprised with their awards following the Black Ferns' match against France in Christchurch on Saturday, allowing them to celebrate alongside teammates and home supporters.
The recognition highlights two important strengths within New Zealand women's rugby: the influence of its established international performers and the emergence of another generation of talent.
Olsen-Baker's Player of the Year award follows an outstanding international season in the Black Ferns' back row.
Her powerful ball-carrying, athleticism and ability to break through defensive lines have made her an influential presence in New Zealand's forward pack.
She has also contributed significantly through her defensive work and ability to create attacking opportunities.
Olsen-Baker secured the award ahead of England's Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones, and Canada's DaLeaka Menin.
Winning the award places her among the leading individual performers in international women's rugby for 2026.
For King, the recognition marks an impressive beginning to her international career.
The openside flanker has quickly established herself in the Black Ferns' forward pack through her defensive ability, physicality and work at the breakdown.
Her performances during her debut international season earned her the Breakthrough Player of the Year award ahead of France's Pauline Barrat, Australia's Amelia Whitaker and the United States' Bella Vogel.
King's emergence is particularly encouraging for the Black Ferns as they continue developing their squad for future international competitions.
The significance of the double success extends beyond the two players.
Olsen-Baker's recognition reflects the quality and consistency of New Zealand's established international talent, while King's award demonstrates the strength of the next generation coming through.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson congratulated both players, highlighting their influence throughout the season and the significance of receiving their awards in Christchurch.
“Their achievements reflect the exceptional talent and ambition driving women's rugby forward,” Robinson said.
The presentations also formed part of a special occasion for New Zealand rugby, with three-time Women's Rugby World Cup winner Rochelle Martin inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame following the Black Ferns' match against France.
The World Rugby Women's Awards celebrations will conclude on Monday, 2 November, when the Women's 15s Try of the Year and Dream Team of the Year are announced.
The Try of the Year winner has been decided through a global fan vote, while the Dream Team will recognise outstanding international performers from the 2026 season.
For the Black Ferns, however, Christchurch has already delivered a memorable moment.
Two players at different stages of their international careers have received global recognition on the same night, reinforcing New Zealand's standing in women's rugby.
Source: New Zealand Rugby media release, 31 October 2026, reporting World Rugby Women's Awards 2026 results.
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