Jones Set to Lead England's Red Roses in Women's Six Nations Opener Against Ireland

England's women's rugby team, led by Meg Jones, is gearing up to defend their Guinness Six Nations title against Ireland. The team features seven players who were part of the World Cup final victory over Canada. Jones takes over as captain, replacing Zoe Stratford, and will play at outside centre. The Red Roses will face Ireland at Allianz Stadium, with a record-breaking crowd of over 75,000 fans expected to attend. England head coach John Mitchell expressed his excitement about the team's return to action, stating that the players are ready to perform in front of a large crowd and understand the responsibility that comes with it. The team has undergone some changes, with Hollie Aitchison and Lucy Packer forming the half-backs and Natasha Hunt and Zoe Harrison providing cover from the bench. Meanwhile, 19-year-old number eight Haineala Lutui is set to make her debut as a replacement. Ireland, led by captain Erin King, will feature uncapped prop Eilís Cahill and scrum-half Katie Whelan, who are in line for their debut appearances off the replacements bench. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to make a strong start to the tournament.