Richards impressed with rising standards

??I don't think New Zealand??s exit means they are now a lesser team. Unfortunately they had one off game that cost them dearly. With a tournament structure that throws up a lottery for the fourth semi-finalist, sometimes you may not see the best four teams in the semis. I think it would be a fairer tournament if quarter-finals were included."

"As for the Black Ferns I am sure they will learn from this and they will come back more determined to perform well and win.??

With just 24 hours now to go for the players of Canada and England, Richards says nothing should change in terms of how each side is preparing.?˜

??I suppose the big thing is that the games get more and more important and when you get to the semis and then the final it is a must win situation and things get more exciting. However even though the games are more important you can't prepare differently.

??Over the years in that situation?˜with New Zealand, nothing changed for the final. Our build-up and preparation was the same for every game at a World Cup, in fact it was the same for every test match. Usually the afternoon or night before a game we would have the jersey presentation. For the 2010 World Cup final jersey presentation we had Sean Fitzpatrick come in and talk to us. We would have a last meeting and then it was all about relaxing, spending time with your team-mates, getting physio treatment or getting as much rest as possible.??

Keeping a lid on emotions is important too she adds.?˜

??You just have to focus on the processes and not about the outcome.?˜By the final everybody knows their job, knows the game plan.?˜In fact I tried not to think too much about the game at all if I could help it.??

For Richards there are numerous thrilling World Cup Final memories to look back on, but one stands out.?˜

??The 2006 final was the most exciting and fun one to play in. England played really well and it was such a great challenge. I remember sitting in the changing rooms after and smiling so much but being so damned tired and sore I didn't think I would be able to even have a shower.??

Watching from overseas, Richards has been impressed both with how this World Cup has been run and also with the standards.

??I've found it hard to be so far away watching it as it's been a while since I wasn't at a World Cup. I think the French have done an amazing job of organising and promoting the tournament which is borne out by the spectator numbers and the TV audiences. I also think teams have definitely closed the gap on the leading teams which can be seen in Ireland's magnificent win against the Black Ferns and the England and Canada draw.

??The game has evolved in the four years since the last World Cup. I think the biggest improvement has been in the women's kicking game. Across the board the kicking strategically, for distance and accuracy has been so much better than in 2010. Also I think with the rise of Sevens more players are now training full time so consequently more players are better skilled.??

Finally Richards has a word of advice for the players who will be motivating each other ahead of the big game tomorrow.?˜

??It's important that the words spoken focus on the processes and keep the players connected. You can't get away from the fact that it is the final but you also need to treat it like it is another test match as well.??