Five One New Zealand Warriors will chase Rugby League World Cup glory when the Kiwi Ferns face the Jillaroos in the women’s decider at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday (3.10pm kick-off local time; 6.10pm NZT).
The rivals are seeking a fourth title after splitting the previous six finals, the Kiwis Ferns winning the first three in 2000, 2003 and 2008, the Australians the next three in 2013, 2017 and 2022.
The New Zealanders will take an unchanged lineup into the seventh title battle, one which features Warriors players Apii Nicholls, Mele Hufanga, Stacey Waaka and Kaiyah Atai in the starting side with Ivana Lauitiiti on the bench.
They all played a key part in helping the New Zealand to an emphatic 32-0 semifinal victory over Samoa while the Australians eliminated Fiji 30-14 to set up the fifth consecutive World Cup final featuring the Ferns and the Jillaroos.
“Our Kiwi Ferns have been so dominant in years gone by, and we want to bring dominance back to this jersey, so I think it will be a case of who wants it more,” said Kiwi Ferns co-captain Georgia Hale.
The last time the Ferns lifted the trophy was also at Suncorp Stadium when they doused Australia 34-0 in 2008, which marked their third World Cup title on the trot.
“We have been building well throughout the tournament. We understand the Jillaroos side, and will give it our all to make New Zealand proud this weekend,” said Kiwi Ferns head coach Ricky Henry.
Nicholls and halfback Raecene McGregor will be appearing in their third consecutive World Cup final.
