England's Red Roses are gearing up to face Scotland in the Guinness Women's Six Nations, despite being hampered by a lengthy list of absentees. Head coach John Mitchell remains optimistic, stating that the team will adapt to the challenges posed by the injuries. Five changes have been made to the starting lineup, including the debut of 19-year-old Demelza Short as blindside flanker. Other new additions include fly-half Zoe Harrison, full-back Emma Sing, lock Abi Burton, and prop Maud Muir.
Ellie Kildunne has been shifted to the left wing, while Maddie Feaunati takes over at No 8 due to Alex Matthews' shoulder injury. The Red Roses have been severely impacted by injuries, with Hannah Botterman, Morwenna Talling, Natasha Hunt, May Campbell, and Tatyana Heard ruled out for the entire tournament. Additionally, Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, Rosie Galligan, and Lark Atkin-Davies are unavailable due to pregnancy.
Mitchell emphasized the team's ability to adapt, saying, 'We've had to adjust to several changes due to injuries to highly valued teammates, but that's part of the culture we're building.' Defence coach Sarah Hunter views the current situation as an opportunity to develop the squad's depth and build towards the 2029 World Cup. 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.
Replacements include 16 Connie Powell, 17 Mackenzie Carson, 18 Sarah Bern, 19 Haineala Lutui, 20 Marlie Packer, 21 Flo Robinson, 22 Holly Aitchison, 23 Mia Venner.