New Zealand are putting on a brave face after losing back-row forward Greg Eastwood for Saturday's Gillette Four Nations showdown with England.

Eastwood, who will join Super League champions Leeds Rhinos next season, has broken a bone in his wrist and will be unavailable both this weekend and for the final at Elland Road should the Kiwis win the do-or-die clash at Huddersfield's Galpharm Stadium.

"It's a shame for Greg but it's an opportunity for somebody else," said New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney.

"We're not short of players - although we don't want to be losing too many more - and are fortunate to have some great talent in players like Ben Matulino, who I thought was magnificent last week.

"We also have Jeff Lima, who has a chance of coming back this week."

With centre Steve Matai also ruled out with an eye injury, the Kiwis will be without two of their most experienced players for their final group game.

"It's also tough on Steve that he won't be able to play this week but we hope he will be right for the following week should we beat England on Saturday night and make the final," added Kearney.

"We've had our share of injury problems before and during this campaign but we've also seen the way our younger players have responded when given the opportunity."