England's Red Roses are preparing to face Scotland in the Guinness Women's Six Nations, despite a growing injury list that has forced head coach John Mitchell to make significant changes to the starting lineup. Five new players have been brought into the starting XV, including 19-year-old Demelza Short, who will make her debut at blindside flanker.
Other changes include the inclusion of fly-half Zoe Harrison, full-back Emma Sing, lock Abi Burton, and prop Maud Muir. The team is looking to build on their 33-12 victory over Ireland in the opening match of the Championship. However, the Red Roses have been severely impacted by injuries, with several key players ruled out for the entire tournament, including Hannah Botterman, Morwenna Talling, Natasha Hunt, May Campbell, and Tatyana Heard.
Additionally, Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, Rosie Galligan, and Lark Atkin-Davies are missing due to pregnancy. Coach Mitchell remains optimistic, stating that the injuries create opportunities for other players to step up and demonstrate the team's depth. Defence coach Sarah Hunter views the current situation as a chance to develop younger players and build towards the next World Cup in 2029.
The team's starting XV includes Emma Sing, Jess Breach, Megan Jones, Helena Rowland, Ellie Kildunne, Zoe Harrison, Lucy Packer, Kelsey Clifford, Amy Cokayne, Maud Muir, Abi Burton, Lilli Ives Campion, Demelza Short, Sadia Kabeya, and Maddie Feaunati.