England's Red Roses are gearing up to face Scotland in the Guinness Women's Six Nations, despite being plagued by a slew of injuries. Coach John Mitchell remains optimistic, stating that the team will adapt to the changes and capitalize on the opportunities they present.
Five changes have been made to the starting lineup, including the debut of 19-year-old Demelza Short as blindside flanker. Other newcomers include fly-half Zoe Harrison, full-back Emma Sing, lock Abi Burton, and prop Maud Muir.
Ellie Kildunne has shifted to the left wing, while Maddie Feaunati has moved from blindside flanker to No 8 to fill the gap left by Alex Matthews' injury. The Red Roses have been severely impacted by injuries, with several key players, including Hannah Botterman, Morwenna Talling, and Natasha Hunt, ruled out for the entire tournament.
Mitchell views the challenges as a chance to build the team's depth and develop younger players. "We've had to adapt to a number of changes with injuries to team-mates who are hugely valued within the group, but that's part of the culture we're building," he said. Defence coach Sarah Hunter also sees the situation as an opportunity to prepare for the next World Cup in 2029.
The starting XV includes 15 Emma Sing, 14 Jess Breach, 13 Megan Jones (c), 12 Helena Rowland, 11 Ellie Kildunne, 10 Zoe Harrison, 9 Lucy Packer; 1 Kelsey Clifford, 2 Amy Cokayne, 3 Maud Muir, 4 Abi Burton, 5 Lilli Ives Campion, 6 Demelza Short, 7 Sadia Kabeya, 8 Maddie Feaunati. The replacements are 16 Connie Powell, 17 Mackenzie Carson, 18 Sarah Bern, 19 Haineala Lutui, 20 Marlie Packer, 21 Flo Robinson, 22 Holly Aitchison, 23 Mia Venner.