New Zealand targets Australia's weaknesses before World Cup final

New Zealand's Kiwi Ferns say they can challenge Australia's Jillaroos in Sunday's women's Rugby League World Cup final in Brisbane, despite the hosts' strong recent record in the rivalry. Captain Georgia Hale said her side believed its forwards, speed and attacking skill could expose weaknesses in the Australian team.

Australia has won 12 of the teams' past 14 meetings over 11 years. New Zealand nevertheless leads the longer head-to-head record 17-15, reflecting its dominance in the earlier period. Hale said the current side wanted to beat the best rather than rely on that history.

The Jillaroos reached the final after a 30-14 semi-final win over Fiji. Australia captain Isabelle Kelly said the physical contest had provided useful preparation and that her team expected New Zealand to study its performances closely.

Both teams are preparing for changes in tactics in the decider. The comments set out the captains' expectations before the match; the final has not been played, and New Zealand's confidence does not change Australia's status as the reported favourite.