England Faces Scotland with Debutant Demelza Short Amidst Injury Crisis

England's women's rugby team is bracing for their Six Nations match against Scotland, dealing with a lengthy list of absent players. Coach John Mitchell has made significant changes to the starting lineup, including giving 19-year-old Demelza Short her debut as a blindside flanker. The team is adapting to the loss of key players, with five new additions to the starting XV, including fly-half Zoe Harrison and full-back Emma Sing. Ellie Kildunne has been shifted to the left wing, while Maddie Feaunati takes over at No 8 due to an injury to Alex Matthews. The Red Roses are coping with a substantial injury toll, having lost several players to the entire tournament, and others to pregnancy. Mitchell views these challenges as opportunities for growth, stating that the team is building a culture that can adapt to adversity. Defence coach Sarah Hunter sees the current situation as a chance to develop younger players in preparation for the next World Cup in 2029. The starting XV includes several new faces, with replacements ready to step in as needed.