Rugby World Cup heartbreak but then a cool feeling: New Zealand duo Liana Mikaele-Tuu and Layla Saes rollercoaster ride
3 minute readPublished: Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 8:00 am
New Zealand Rugby Stars Embrace New Chapter in England
Two prominent New Zealand rugby players, Liana Mikaele-Tuu and Layla Sae, are embarking on a new chapter in their careers, joining the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) club Harlequins in England. The duo, known for their athleticism and professionalism, are eager to experience a different style of rugby and contribute to the growing enthusiasm for women's sports in the UK.
Sae, who recently arrived in England, is looking forward to the opportunity to play in a new environment and enhance her rugby knowledge. Mikaele-Tuu, already a few weeks into her stint, has been warmly welcomed by her new teammates. Both players are impressed by the quality of rugby and the passion of the fans in England, which contrasts with the limited Super Rugby season back home.
The move comes after a challenging Rugby World Cup for the Black Ferns, where they secured a bronze medal. Mikaele-Tuu reflected on the heartbreak of losing a semi-final match, the first such loss in over a decade. However, the team found solace in their final match, playing in front of a large crowd at Twickenham.
Beyond their on-field achievements, Sae is an inspiration, managing type 1 diabetes while pursuing her professional rugby career. She emphasizes that her condition is a manageable aspect of her life, and she hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions.
Both players are enjoying their time with Harlequins and are open to extending their stay beyond the current season. They are drawn to the increased playing opportunities and the experience of playing in a different part of the world.
BNN's Perspective: The arrival of these talented New Zealand players in the PWR is a positive development for the league. Their presence will undoubtedly elevate the standard of play and further boost the visibility of women's rugby. It's encouraging to see athletes like Sae using their platform to inspire others, demonstrating that challenges can be overcome with determination and support.
Keywords: Rugby, New Zealand, Black Ferns, Liana Mikaele-Tuu, Layla Sae, Harlequins, PWR, Premiership Women's Rugby, England, Rugby World Cup, Bronze Medal, Type 1 Diabetes, Women's Sports, Professional Athlete.