England Kicks Off Women's Six Nations Title Defense Against Ireland

England, led by Meg Jones, is set to begin their Guinness Six Nations title defense against Ireland at Allianz Stadium, marking their first match as World Champions. The team features seven players from the World Cup final victory over Canada, including Jones, who takes over as captain after Zoe Stratford's pregnancy announcement. The Red Roses will face an Ireland team led by Erin King, with Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald nearing her 50th Test cap and uncapped players Eilís Cahill and Katie Whelan waiting in the wings. England head coach John Mitchell expressed excitement about the opportunity to play in front of a record crowd, stating, 'We know success in this competition is never given - it has to be earned every time.' The match promises to be an intense and thrilling encounter, with England aiming to secure their eighth consecutive Six Nations title.