Monday 14 November 2016 11:27, UK
Australia scrum-half Cooper Cronk still believes New Zealand are the best team in the world despite their 18-18 draw with Scotland on Friday.
The shock result in Workington left the Kiwis in danger of missing out on a place in the Four Nations final, but Australia's 36-18 victory over England in London on Sunday saw them make it through.
The bookmakers have installed the Kangaroos as overwhelming favourites to reclaim both the Four Nations title and the world No 1 ranking from their arch rivals in next Sunday's final at Anfield, but Cooper remains wary.
"If they had won by 50 points [against Scotland] or drawn, you're not really concerned because they're the best team in the world at the moment, there's no doubt about that," Cronk said.
"They have class across the field. They've got the best player in the NRL from this season (Jason Taumalolo), they've got the best prop in Jesse Bromwich and they've got Shaun Johnson who is electric on his day."
The Kiwis' chances of holding onto their crown have been dealt a major blow with the loss of Wigan half-back or hooker Thomas Leuluai, who sustained a double fracture to his jaw in Friday's game and underwent surgery on Sunday.
In Leuluai's absence, coach David Kidwell is likely to turn to Te Maire Martin, Penrith Panthers' 21-year-old half-back who made his debut off the bench against Scotland, or second rower Tohu Harris, who appears to be the most likely option after filling the role in previous emergencies.
"That's the first I've heard of it but I suppose he has the ability to play in a different position and he's an elite player no matter what number he has on the back of his jersey," Cronk said.
"I also think they have some depth in their squad. So we'll cater for whatever team New Zealand throw at us."
Australia coach Mal Meninga will also be forced to make at least one change, with Brisbane second rower Sam Thaiday set to be ruled out with a facial injury following a clash of heads with England prop James Graham.
"Sam had to go to hospital," Meninga said. "We believe he's got a fractured eye socket which will unfortunately put him out for next week. I think it was accidental."
Cronk said: "I think he knew about it as soon as it happened. We've got our fingers and toes crossed for him that it's a positive scan result.
"There's no doubt he'll still be a part of the team come the final whether he's playing or not."
Meanwhile, Cronk had some comforting words for England after they suffered the ignominy of failing to reach the final on home soil.
"I thought they were really impressive," the Melbourne half-back said. "I thought the first half was very physical and very intense, Test-match football. They played with a lot of energy and physicality and I thought we matched it.
"I think that try just before half-time was crucial in the outcome of the game. I think we've improved each game and hopefully that is a good omen for a good performance in the final."
