Black Ferns lose Liana Mikaele-Tu'u to injury ahead of World Cup final against England

New Zealand have been dealt a blow ahead of the World Cup final against England at Eden Park in Auckland with No 8 Liana Mikaele-Tu'u ruled out of the encounter due to injury.

The 20-year-old sustained a thumb injury during the semi-final against France where she was replaced at half time.

Black Ferns assistant coach Wes Clarke said Mikaele-Tu'u was disappointed with the setback.

“She’s gutted,” said Clarke.

“You would be. She's been a big part of our team so far. She's a special human. I'm sure she'll add stuff off the field.

“Even though she's only a young player herself, she's really good at teaching the other players.”

Black Ferns loose forward Sarah Hirini said the team will miss Mikaele-Tu'u's presence but is banking on her replacement to seize the opportunity.

“She’s part of the loosie gang, so I know the loose cannons will be playing for her this weekend,” she said.

“She will obviously be replaced by another amazing player that is pretty great as well.”

England and New Zealand have faced each other four times in the last five World Cups with the Black Ferns emerging victorious on all the four occasions.