Auckland duo back to bolster Black Ferns for England test

Auckland's Fiao'o Fa'amausili and Helen Va'aga return to the Black Ferns starting lineup for tomorrow's women's test against England at Eden Park.

The pair last played for the national team against the World XV in 2003.

Uncapped Auckland duo Diane Maliukaetau and Waimania Teddy, Canterbury's Kimberley Smith and Otago's Piki Solomon were named in the reserves.

Black Ferns coach Jed Rowlands said tomorrow's test would present the team with a tough challenge.

"England played well against the New Zealand Invitational XV last night, winning 40-8, and there is no doubt that they will be a strong side," he said.

"We haven't been together for a while but the players are familiar with our game. The Canada Cup was good and our preparation this week went well."

Auckland loose forward Joan Sione has withdrawn from the squad because of injury and has been replaced by her provincial team-mate, Justine Lavea.

Tomorrow's match is the curtain-raiser to the NPC first-division final between Auckland and Otago. The second test is at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton next Wednesday.

- NZPA