England Names Squad for Women's Six Nations Opener Against Ireland
England's rugby team, led by Meg Jones, is set to defend their Guinness Six Nations title against Ireland. The team features seven players from the World Cup final victory over Canada. Jones will captain the team for the first time, replacing Zoe Stratford, who is pregnant with her first child. The Red Roses will play at Allianz Stadium, where a record-breaking crowd of over 75,000 fans is expected. England head coach John Mitchell stated, 'We know success in this competition is never given - it has to be earned every time.' The team includes experienced players such as Ellie Kildunne, Jess Breach, Amy Cokayne, and Alex Matthews, as well as newcomers like 19-year-old Haineala Lutui, who is set to make her debut. Ireland, led by captain Erin King, will provide a strong challenge, with Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald nearing her 50th Test cap and uncapped players EilĂs Cahill and Katie Whelan ready to make their debut. The match promises to be an exciting encounter between two strong teams, with England seeking to win their eighth consecutive Six Nations title.