England's Red Roses are gearing up for their Guinness Women's Six Nations match against Scotland, despite facing a series of setbacks due to injuries. Coach John Mitchell remains optimistic, emphasizing the team's ability to adapt to challenges. 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. The team is looking to build on their 33-12 victory over Ireland, with Ellie Kildunne shifting to the left wing and Maddie Feaunati moving to No 8 to fill the gap left by Alex Matthews' shoulder injury. The Red Roses have been severely impacted by injuries, with several key players ruled out of the 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 unavailable due to pregnancy. Mitchell views these challenges as opportunities for growth, stating, 'It creates opportunities for others to step up and highlights the depth we're continuing to grow, both for now and the future.' Defence coach Sarah Hunter also sees the current situation as a chance to develop younger players in preparation for the 2029 World Cup.
The 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.