The Black Ferns clash against the US last weekend in the United States was special for two Eastern Bay stars – Mererangi Paul and Ruahei Demant.

For Paul, it was her first start since missing out on the Rugby World Cup squad last year and she made every post a winner with an impressive hat-trick.

Demant reached a special milestone, becoming the most capped Black Ferns’ captain with her 36th appearance leading the side as they ran out 43-15 victors.

Poroporo-born Paul said it was awesome getting an opportunity to don the Black Ferns’ outfit again.

“It was pretty cool out there. Us back three had a lot of fun. We worked hard throughout the week to grow our connection. I scored three tries but also bombed two, which I wasn’t happy about.”

She is pleased to start the tour with a victory.

“I think we came away from the game with a lot of good things but also a lot of things we can work on over the next couple of weeks.

“The coaches have allowed us to play freely and back our skill set. At training we do a lot of craft to perfect our line kicks and chip kicks.”

This weekend they face Canada and Paul is excited at the challenge.

“It will be good to play them. We’re together about three weeks and it already feels like our connections are starting to grow.”

Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen is full of praise for the team and Paul.

“We had lots of athletes go out and front, and Mererangi was one.

“Three tries, nearly four. It was so impressive seeing her go out there and back herself, back her skill set and I loved seeing the chip and chase. That’s the sort of rugby people want to see at home. She was thrilled with her performance and so were we.”

Demant, who hails from Omaio and has spent the past few months playing in England as part of the women’s premiership, said becoming the most capped Black Ferns skipper was special.

“It feels very refreshing being part of this new era. There’s been a lot of gratitude from players and coaches which is true to our identity.”

“It’s always a privilege to wear the black jersey. It was very exciting for all of us.

“We probably weren’t respecting the ball that well at once but I’d rather that than no one showing an interest.”

Although it rained towards the end, that did not deter the ladies, Demant said.

“Everyone was excited to be out there playing with their friends. Rain, hail or shine no one cared we were there to have fun.”

Hansen said Demant had the respect of everybody in the set-up.

“One of the first things I will say is there is a real humility to her.

“She really embodies hard work and how to grow the space and be better.

“She is incredibly articulate and when she starts talking, everything stops.

“There’s a real confidence from the way she leads, and everyone wants to go to war with her. It’s incredibly special to have her,” Hansen said.

Both players will be likely to start against Canada this weekend.