KAT TAKES THE CREAM HALL: WE’LL HANDLE HEAT

RYAN HALL expects a hostile reception when England face World Cup success story Tonga in Auckland on Saturday.

Kristian Woolf’s side have been backed by a large, noisy army of fans in every game so far, outnumbering the New Zealand support for their stunning 28-22 win in Hamilton.

A big Tongan contingent is again expected as England bid to reach a first World Cup final since 1995.

Leeds Rhino winger Hall (above) said: “You have to play in hostile environments sometimes and you’ve got to embrace it. “It will be an experience playing against Tonga in New Zealand. “There’s no bad blood in there, everyone wants to watch a game and hopefully we can bring our side to the party. “They had a great win against the Kiwis two weeks ago, then they had a competitive win over Lebanon. “I saw the game and I’m really looking forward to playing them.” KATHERINE BRUNT starred with bat and ball as England beat Australia in the second T20 in Canberra.

Brunt hit 32 not out, following 40 from Natalie Sciver and 30 from Sarah Taylor, as England posted 152-6. She then took 2-10, while Jenny Gunn had a run-out and four wickets as Australia collapsed from 45-0 to 112 all out with two overs left. It means England can level the series at 8-8 if they win tomorrow’s final match.

It would not prevent Australia from retaining the urn, but Brunt is hoping they can end the tour in style. Having lost the Test series last week, Brunt (above) said: “It’s a shame we brought one of our best games today and not the other day, but hopefully we can still level the series. “That’s what we’re striving for now.” Australia all-rounder Delissa Kimmince said: “Brunt bowled really well into the wicket and Gunn’s slower balls were hard to get on to.”