New Zealand rugby icon Ruby Tui has voiced her support for France ahead of their Women's Six Nations Grand Slam decider against England this Sunday. The highly anticipated 'Le Crunch' fixture in Bordeaux will see England's Red Roses attempt to extend their remarkable 37-game winning streak, but Tui, a World Cup winner and Olympic gold medallist, believes the game needs a French victory.
Tui, who has been working as a pundit for the BBC, stated her desire to see France emerge victorious, arguing that it would be beneficial for the wider sport. Her comments underscore the competitive tension surrounding the match, which is expected to draw thousands of spectators to Bordeaux's Stade Atlantique.
England's dominance in women's rugby has been a significant talking point, with their unbeaten run stretching back several years. This Sunday's encounter represents one of their sternest tests, as France consistently fields a strong team capable of challenging the Red Roses. A Grand Slam decider between the two perennial rivals adds further weight to the occasion.
The match holds considerable implications for both teams. For England, a victory would solidify their status as the undisputed leading force in women's international rugby, further cementing their formidable legacy. For France, a win would not only secure the Grand Slam but also represent a monumental achievement in ending England's unprecedented winning streak, potentially shifting the dynamic at the top of the women's game.
Tui's perspective, coming from one of the most respected figures in international rugby, highlights the global interest in this fixture. Her view that the game requires a team to challenge England's supremacy reflects a desire for greater competitive balance and compelling narratives within women's rugby, which continues to grow in popularity and profile.