Jorja Miller has been ruled out of New Zealand’s semi-final against Canada in a huge blow to the Black Ferns’ hopes of defending their Rugby World Cup crown.

New Zealand are in for a tight game on Friday against Canada, who are ranked No 2 in the world, as the Black Ferns seek a place in a third straight World Cup final. Their most recent meeting ended in a 27-27 draw in the Pacific Four tournament.

The 21-year-old Miller has been one of the best players this World Cup in attack and defence, scoring four tries and missing two tackles of the 39 attempted.

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Miller’s injury and her predicted recovery have not been confirmed but she is working closely with the medical team. The co-captain Kennedy Tukuafu comes in at openside flanker.

The lock Laura Bayfield, who has been coming off the bench in this World Cup, will also miss the semi-final. Amy du Plessis has already been ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a shoulder injury, with the outside back Mererangi Paul called up as a replacement.

Miller is one of four changes to the Black Ferns’ starting XV, with Sylvia Brunt back in the centres, Risaleaana Pouri-Lane starting at scrum-half and Tanya Kalounivale at tighthead prop. Ruahei Demant retains her fly-half role and will win her 50th cap against Canada in Bristol to become the third-highest capped Black Fern of all-time behind Kendra Cocksedge and Fiao’o Fa’amausili.