England manager Simon Middleton made three changes to his three-quarter line-up for the World Cup final against the Black Ferns this Saturday at Eden Park (7.30am).

Before a final, it is customary to change as little as possible to the composition that has enabled the team to rise so far in the competition. But Simon Middleton opted to largely reshape his three-quarter line ahead of Saturday’s title match against New Zealand at Eden Park (7.30am).

Holly Aitchinson thus replaces Tatyana Heard in the middle to stand alongside iconic Emily Scarratt. On the wing, Lydia Thompson follows Claudia MacDonald, who has been very restless since the start of the competition, and again last weekend against Canada in the semifinals (26-19). Finally, the latest change is made as full-back Helena Rowland picked up an ankle injury in the last game. It is Ellie Kildunne who will therefore officiate in number 15.

At the front, nothing changes for the Red Roses. Captain Sarah Hunter is starting the 140th game of her international career, approaching the all-time record, men and women combined, held by Welshman Alun-Wyn Jones (154 caps). Vicki Cornborough, Amy Cokayne and Sarah Bern will form the imposing front row to try and win the 31st consecutive success and, importantly, the third World Cup after those of 1994 and 2014.

Smith believes in continuityFor the New Zealanders, coach Wayne Smith opted for continuity. The only change from half won against France (25-24) is due to Liana Mikaele-Tu’u’s thumb injury. It is therefore Charmaine McMenamin who replaces her in the number 8 position.

Renee Holmes will retain her starting spot at full-back, while the Black Ferns’ two main attacking leaders, Portia Woodman and Ruby Tui, will occupy the wings. Scrum half Kendra Cocksedge will play her final game, the 68th of her international career, setting a record for the New Zealand team. She will be looking to win her third World Cup as a privateer after 2010 and 2017.