England have been dealt a blow on the eve of their final Test against New Zealand after Geoff Parling was ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Joe Launchbury will resume his successful Six Nations second-row partnership with Courtney Lawes by taking Parling’s place in the starting XV, with Dave Attwood promoted to the bench.

“Geoff is not 100% right so Joe will start,” said England’s head coach, Stuart Lancaster. Parling damaged his hamstring during the 28-27 defeat against the All Blacks in Dunedin, a result that put the series beyond England’s reach.

The 30-year-old has been described by Lancaster as the “outstanding forward” on tour. Apart from his work rate around the pitch, Parling has been the series’ best lineout operator, enabling him to break up the Lawes-Launchbury pairing even when both locks were available.

Launchbury looked tired in the first two Tests, and will now have to summon the energy for one last assault at the Waikato Stadium as England attempt to claim a victory in New Zealand.

“Geoff has done a great job since coming back, but Joe and Courtney established themselves in the Six Nations and we’re looking forward to them pairing up again,” Lancaster said.