Jorja Miller has been ruled out of New Zealand’s semi-final against Canada in a significant blow to the Black Ferns’ hopes of defending their Rugby World Cup title. The match takes place on Friday in Bristol, with the winners advancing to a third successive final.
The 21-year-old Miller has been one of the standout performers at the tournament, scoring four tries and missing just two tackles out of 39 attempted. Her injury and expected recovery time have not been confirmed, but she is working closely with the medical team.
In Miller’s absence, co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu comes in at openside flanker. Lock Laura Bayfield is also out. Director of rugby Allan Bunting said: 'Obviously we don’t have Jorja but we’ve got this lady sitting next to me and Layla Sae comes on the bench. They bring their own presence and special gifts.'
Tukuafu added: 'I go to her if I need her help in the position because she has been starting. She is an incredible player but we haven’t felt her presence leave at all.'
Miller is one of four changes to the starting XV, with Sylvia Brunt returning at centre, Risaleaana Pouri-Lane at scrum-half, and Tanya Kalounivale at tighthead prop. Ruahei Demant retains the fly-half role and will earn her 50th cap, becoming the third-most capped Black Fern.
