New Zealand and Canada played to a thrilling 27-27 draw in the second round of the Pacific Four Series in Christchurch.

Teenager Braxton Sorensen-McGee, who made an impressive debut with two tries in the opening match against Australia, got the scoring underway for the reigning world champions, the Black Ferns, in the sixth minute.

Defending champions Canada quickly responded, with DaLeaka Menin scoring a converted try, bringing the teams to a 12-12 tie at halftime.

The seesaw battle continued after the break, with Ayesha Leti-l’iga scoring a second try for New Zealand, before Alysha Corrigan and Olivia Apps replied with tries for Canada.

In the 77th minute, Shoshanah Seumanutafa gave Canada a 27-22 lead, but Julia Schell missed the conversion. This opened the door for New Zealand, as Sylvia Brunt scored an 83rd-minute try to level the scores.

However, Ruahei Demant’s missed conversion meant the Black Ferns could not claim victory in the dying moments.

Meanwhile, in Canberra, Australia secured their first win of the series with a comfortable 27-19 victory over the USA.

Hope Rogers scored all three of the USA’s tries, including the first of the game, but scores from Eva Karpani, Ashley Masters, and Charlotte Caslick gave Australia a 19-14 lead at halftime. Masters added another try early in the second half, and the Wallaroos held on for the win.

The series will conclude with Australia facing Canada on Friday, 23 May, and New Zealand taking on the USA the following day.

The teams are also gearing up for the World Cup in England, starting 22 August, with New Zealand aiming to secure a third consecutive title.