England's Red Roses are bracing for their Guinness Women's Six Nations match against Scotland, despite a surge in player absences. Coach John Mitchell has announced five changes to the starting lineup, including a debut for 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. To accommodate these changes, Ellie Kildunne has moved to the left wing, and Maddie Feaunati has shifted from blindside flanker to No 8, following 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. Furthermore, Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, Rosie Galligan, and Lark Atkin-Davies are also unavailable due to pregnancy. Mitchell emphasized the team's ability to adapt, stating, '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.' Defence coach Sarah Hunter views this challenge as an opportunity 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.