France's Anne-Cecile Ciofani (left) heads to score a try as England's Claire Allan (right) and Emma Uren try to tackle her in the women's Rugby Sevens tournament in Sydney, Australia on Friday. Photo: AFP

Favorites England will refuse to be intimidated by an anticipated sell-out crowd at Auckland's Eden Park on Saturday as they face hosts New Zealand in the women's Rugby World Cup final.

England extended their winning streak to 30 matches by beating Canada in the last four to set up a repeat of the 2017 final, won by five-times world champions New Zealand. 

England coach Simon Middleton described the prospect of facing New Zealand in the Eden Park final as the "ultimate test" with a crowd of around 40,000 putting pressure on the hosts.  

"It will be more intimidating for them. To lose in front of your home crowd is a tough gig," Middleton said Thursday.

England had experience of a raucous crowd in April when they ground out a 24-12 victory in France to clinch the Six Nations championship.

"We've been to some pretty hostile environments. Bayonne this year was incredible, but you thrive on it," said Middleton. 

"Saturday will be no different. I think we will absolutely relish it."

England were forced into changes with prop Hannah Botterman and full-back Helena Rowland injured.

Experienced loose-head prop Vickii Cornborough wins her 75th cap with Ellie Kildunne named at fullback. 

New Zealand made one change with Charmaine McMenamin replacing number eight Liana Mikaele-Tu'u, who has a thumb injury.

The Black Ferns include six of the team who beat England 41-32 at the 2017 World Cup final in Belfast.

AFP