The Laura Langman factor
In the heart of the engine room, captain Laura Langman added another chapter to her decorated career when she became the Silver Ferns most capped player in history in 2018.
Earning her first cap as player #133 in 2005, the midcourt dynamo has clocked up an almost unthinkable run of 151 Tests which essentially tells the story of her athletic ability, tenacity, on-going drive to be better and deep pride in wearing the famed black dress.
Fourteen years on and nothing much has changed for the midcourt whizz, a quickfire question and answer session giving us a glimpse into the qualities that make Langman a national treasure.
Now the most capped Silver Fern in history, do you still get the same buzz out of pulling on the black dress?
The best day of the week is game day! I live for the moment and every game’s like my first. There’s no prouder moment than pulling on the black dress with your roomy when it’s game day.
What is it like to be captaining the Silver Ferns at a World Cup, the sport’s pinnacle event?
To be honest, I’m not in the captain’s seat alone. Every one of our 12 have led teams at some time or another and being in the Ferns doesn’t change that fact. We all have roles to be the leading actress in and I look forward to playing my role to the best of my ability beside my mates.
What’s it like to be going to a fourth World Cup?
Grateful, humble and hungry.
You’ve spent a lot of your career with coach Noeline Taurua, is it extra special to be teaming up with her for a World Cup event?
There is no better person than Noels to lead us ahead of this World Cup. The turnaround she has generated within the environment and players has been special to watch and be a part of. It is always a proud moment to represent your country. However, in respect to Noels, I know New Zealand is proud and grateful to have her at the helm. Hand on heart, I will follow her lead anywhere.
There is lots of experience and leadership qualities on hand in this team, so you won’t lack for back-up or advice?
This is certainly a strength of our playing group. You just have to look at the team's individual journeys to know we know how to weather the storm and make hay while it’s sunny. What I admire best about all the Kiwi teams I have played in is that the result will always be the result and regardless there is no place we would rather be and we celebrate the moments for what they are.
What do you want from this World Cup?
I am no longer a pre-planner and it will be what it will be. No matter the day or circumstances we front up and win or lose there is no place I would rather be. Without a doubt these are exciting times. I love the Kiwi flair and how we play the game. I can’t wait to foot it with the best.