The Australian Jillaroos have made only the one change to their line-up as they prepare to face the Kiwi Ferns, with Jesse Southwell recalled to partner Tarryn Aiken in the halves.
The Broncos halfback will be in familiar surrounds playing in Sunday’s much-anticipated final at Suncorp Stadium.
In her last game for the Jillaroos during the pool stages, Southwell created a new record for individual points scored with 44, after scoring a try and slotting 20 out of 21 goals in the record 124-6 win over Wales.
Star back Jaime Chapman has also been named despite coming from the field early with hamstring awareness in last week’s semi-final win over the Fiji Bulikula.
After a strong campaign so far, coach Jess Skinner was ready for her players to face the challenge of an in-form New Zealand side, with the Trans-Tasman rivalry as strong as ever.
“We’re excited to be meeting our rivals New Zealand again in what should be a fantastic final,” Skinner said.
“Both teams have met their challenges throughout the tournament and have had tough semi-final wins and will be ready to go for the final.”
Australian Jillaroos team for the final v Kiwi Ferns
1. Tamika Upton
2. Jaime Chapman
3. Jessica Sergis
4. Isabelle Kelly (c)
5. Abbi Church
6. Jesse Southwell
7. Tarryn Aiken
8. Millie Elliott
9. Olivia Higgins
10. Simaima Taufa
11. Tiana Penitani Gray
12. Shaylee Bent
13. Olivia Kernick
14. Keeley Nizza
15. Keilee Joseph
16. Kezie Apps
17. Sariah Paki
18. Sheridan Gallagher
19. Sarah Togatuki
20. Quincy Dodd
21. Jocelyn Kelleher
22. Ellie Johnston
23. Makenzie Weale
