The Black Ferns are happily claiming the underdog status for this weekend's Rugby World Cup final showdown against England.
Sarah Hirini of New Zealand during New Zealand Black Ferns v Scotland. Women’s Rugby World Cup New Zealand 2021 (played in 2022) pool match at Northland Events Centre, Whangarei, New Zealand on Saturday 22 October 2022. Mandatory credit: © Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
New Zealand's thrilling semifinal win over France and England's narrow win over Canada has set up an intriguing title decider at Eden Park on Saturday night.
But despite being unexpectedly pushed close by Canada, the English are widely seen as favourites for the final.
Not only are they the number one ranked team, a formidable England side come into the final on a record 30-match winning streak.
Asked if the Black Ferns were underdogs, and if it mattered, flanker Sarah Hirini didn't hesitate with her response.
"We're definitely underdogs.
"We came into this tournament ranked number three, now probably number two.
"They are the team to beat and we've definitely talked about it like that. We now we have to do everything right. We can't make basic errors like we probably did in that semifinal."
Meanwhile New Zealand had suffered a setback in the wake of their physical and frenetic win over France.
Defence coach Wes Clarke confirmed standout No 8 Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, who was replaced at halftime in the semifinal, had been ruled out of the final with a broken thumb.
Hirini said they were gutted for their team-mate, who had started all but one of the Black Ferns five World Cup matches.
"Absolutely. Obviously she's part of the loosie (loose forward) gang, so I know the loose cannons will be playing for her this week.
"But she'll be replaced by another amazing player, as well."
The injury potentially opened the door for co-captain Kennedy Simon to come into the starting side.
Simon made her return from injury off the bench in the quarterfinal win over Wales, and also came off the bench in the semifinal.
Extra tickets for the women's Rugby World Cup final are available, although tournament organisers won't say just how many are available. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz
A limited number of additional tickets will also be released for the final.
Previous capacity at Eden Park was sold out just hours following New Zealand's semi-final win over France last weekend.
But a review of operational space within the stadium by organisers has allowed them to add additional capacity.
-RNZ