Ayesha Leti-I'iga

Ayesha Leti-I’iga is widely recognised as one of rugby’s best wingers. She currently plays for the New Zealand women’s rugby union team and represents Super Rugby team Hurricanes Poua.

Born on 3 January 1999, Ayesha Leti-I’iga was a sprinter while at school. With her power and speed, she switched to rugby and brought her skills to the game. Soon after, she signed to Wellington Pride—she debuted for the club at 16. 

Leti-I’iga currently plays for two Wellington-based teams and has proven herself as a talented winger. To date, she has scored more than 50 tries for Wellington Pride and over 150 for Oriental Rongotai. Additionally, she has also impressed on the international stage. 

Described as a ‘try-scoring sensation’, Leti-I’iga debuted for New Zealand in 2018. The following year, she featured in every match at the Women’s Super Rugby Series.

In 2021, Leti-I’iga joined Hurricanes Poua and competed in the inaugural Super Rugby Aupiki. Following this, she was named in the Black Ferns squad for the 2022 Pacific Four Series. She excelled throughout the tournament, scoring a brace against Australia and a hat trick against the United States. 

Next came the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup. Leti-I’iga’s winning streak continued as she scored a try in the Black Ferns’ match against Scotland. She also scored two tries in the final, helping New Zealand to beat England 34-31 and claim their sixth World Cup title. 

Unfortunately, Leti-I’iga’s stunning run came to an end in July 2023. She suffered a serious knee injury that kept her off the field during the 2024 Super Rugby season. 

As one of the most talented wingers in the women’s game, we’re excited to watch Ayesha Leti-I’iga take to the field once more.