Despite tries from Rawina Everitt, Selica Winiata and Kendra Cocksedge, England’s Scarratt added seven points with the boot to leave Street over the moon.

“Obviously we’re hugely delighted to have won here at Twickenham and to wrap up the series in front of a big home crowd,” he said.

“The players, as a group, were once again outstanding and they showed tremendous mental strength to get through this series and win it 3-0.

“There is a lot of trust in this group and that shows every time a squad member pulls on the England shirt.

“We may not have won a world cup for many years but we are definitely the number one side in the world at the moment.”

New Zealand started brightly, but it was England who went ahead when Merchant went over after a strong break from centre Watmore.

England’s second try came after 11 minutes, as skipper Katy McLean sent a grubber through for Scarratt to touch down, the full back coverting for an early 12-0 lead.

The visitors soon found their feet and second row Everitt scored her side’s first try after smart play from the backs.

But Street’s troops responded with their third try in the 23rd minute, Merchant again on hand to glide over.

Kelly Brazier then slotted over a penalty for the visitors, but five minutes before half-time Crowley went over, Scarratt’s conversion making it 24-10.

But with England’s Heather Fisher sent to the sin bin, New Zealand made the most of their advantage, Winiata scoring with the last play of the half.

Brazier landed a tricky penalty shortly into the second half, but the Black Ferns were also reduced to 14 when Aroha Savage was sent to the sin bin.

England capitalised on the extra player, Watmore speeding clear and diving over, before a Scarratt penalty extended the lead.

Kiwi fly half Kendra Cocksedge showed good strength to go over and complete the scoring, but the hosts held firm and are now unbeaten in six games against the world champions.