England change 10 for WXV1 clash against New Zealand

England’s women’s rugby team, the Red Roses, have made 10 changes to their starting lineup for their Round 2 clash against New Zealand in the WXV 1 tournament.

Head coach John Mitchell has introduced fresh faces to the squad following their emphatic 61-21 bonus-point victory over the USA in the opening match of the tournament.

Key Changes and Return of Marlie Packer as Captain

Marlie Packer returns to the team to captain the side once again, adding experience and leadership on the field. Prop Hannah Botterman is set to achieve a significant milestone by earning her 50th cap for England. Botterman, who debuted against Canada in 2017, will also make her 25th start for the national team on Sunday.

Amy Cokayne and Maud Muir will join Botterman in the front row, while Zoe Aldcroft and Abbie Ward form a strong second-row partnership. Natasha Hunt and Holly Aitchison will resume their half-back pairing, providing stability and strategic playmaking.

Exciting Backline for England

In the backline, Tatyana Heard and Helena Rowland will combine in the centre, with Abby Dow making her return to the wing. Dow will be joined in the back three by Ellie Kildunne and Jess Breach, both of whom were instrumental in England’s opening victory over the USA, each scoring a try.

The returning Packer, along with Natasha Hunt and Abby Dow, all found the try line in England’s recent 24-14 win over New Zealand before the start of the tournament. Ellie Kildunne also scored in that match, showcasing the team’s attacking prowess.

England's Strong Start to the Tournament

England kicked off their WXV 1 campaign in style, dominating the USA with a commanding performance at BC Place. The Red Roses will now look to maintain their momentum as they take on a formidable New Zealand side in Round 2. Coach John Mitchell’s changes aim to bring fresh energy and tactical adjustments to counter the Black Ferns.

The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter as England’s revamped lineup faces off against their long-time rivals, with both teams looking to secure a crucial victory in the tournament.

England XV: Kildunne; Dow, Rowland, Heard, Breach; Aitchison, Hunt; Botterman, Cokayne, Muir, Aldcroft, Ward, Talling, M Packer, Matthews.

Reserves: Atkin-Davies, Carson, Bern, Galligan, Feaunati, L Packer, Harrison, Scarratt.