Rugby World Cup ‘heartbreak’ but then ‘a cool feeling’: New Zealand duo Liana Mikaele-Tu’u and Layla Sae’s rollercoaster ride

Liana Mikaele-Tu'u (left) and Layla Sae were attracted to England by the level of interest in women’s sport. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

There’s a certain aura that surrounds New Zealand rugby players. Liana Mikaele-Tu’u and Layla Sae have all the athleticism, talent and professionalism that come with being a Black Fern but during a joint interview at Harlequins’ training ground in Surrey, what stands out most is their humility, refreshing honesty and wicked sense of humour.

The duo have signed for the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) club until March. Sae, fresh off the plane from New Zealand, could make her debut against Exeter Chiefs on Sunday, while Mikaele-Tu’u already has a few appearances under her belt after joining a few weeks earlier.