The Black Ferns have farewelled a key player from their World Cup journey as they head into the semi-finals this weekend.
Midfielder Amy du Plessis has been ruled out for the rest of the competition after a shoulder injury during the team's first pool match against Spain.
“With you, @amyduplessis 🖤,” the Black Ferns wrote on Instagram.
“Following our quarter-final match, we farewelled Dupes, who was ruled out for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup due to injury.”
In the clip, the team's coach Allan Bunting shared a special message with a tearful du Plessis.
“I just wanna say that we love you, we absolutely love you,” he began. “You’ll be with us on this journey, mate. You’ve been a massive part.”
The rest of the team honoured her Rugby World Cup journey with a powerful haka in the changing rooms.
As the wāhine put their all into the moment, Amy stood and joined the team, showing them the same love and respect back.
It’s enough to send you into a full-body chill from start to finish.
Fans here at home are sending love to Amy all the way over in England.
“Goosebumps 🥹😢 what a player and what a team 🖤🖤,” said one fan.
“Gutted for Amy,” said another. “She is a force! Can’t wait to see her back.”
A third added: “Dupes, chin up kid. The comeback is strong and bigger than the setback. 🔜🔛🔝. 🔥🖤.”
Amy had been set to play in the quarter-final match against South Africa over the weekend but was ruled out ahead of the match, ending her World Cup journey for the remainder of the final rounds.
"Unfortunately, we couldn't get her across the line,” assistant coach Tony Christie said.
“It’s initial grief. It’s like any loss in your life - something that you’re very driven [about] and you’ve worked hard for three years. There’s obviously hurt there,” he added.
She’s a very hard-working athlete who cares a lot for the black jersey.
In her own social media post, du Plessis shared the bittersweet feelings of having to let go of her World Cup dream.
“THE GAME YOU LOVE, DOESN'T ALWAYS LOVE YOU BACK,” she began.
Part of me is proud for trying my absolute best, and part of me feels empty because my dream has been shattered.
“I have been so fortunate to be part of this amazing team, and I have no doubt the girls will get the job done,” she added.
“What doesn't kill me will make me stronger. Signing out for the year 🖤.”
Amy will stay in England to support her teammates as they face Canada this Saturday, September 20, at 6am.
We’re wishing our wāhine all the best and know du Plessis will be a great support, even if it is from the sidelines.
