England Women's rugby coach John Mitchell remains optimistic despite a lengthy list of absentees, as the team prepares to face Scotland in the Guinness Women's Six Nations. Five changes have been made to the starting lineup, including the debut of 19-year-old Demelza Short as blindside flanker. Other newcomers to the starting XV include fly-half Zoe Harrison, full-back Emma Sing, lock Abi Burton, and prop Maud Muir.
The team is seeking to build on their recent 33-12 victory over Ireland. Due to injuries and other absences, several players have shifted positions, with Ellie Kildunne moving to the left wing and Maddie Feaunati switching to No 8.
The Red Roses have been hit with a significant number of injuries, including those to Hannah Botterman, Morwenna Talling, Natasha Hunt, May Campbell, and Tatyana Heard, all of whom are out for the tournament. Additionally, several players are absent due to pregnancy. Coach Mitchell views these challenges as opportunities for other players to step up and demonstrate the team's depth. "It creates opportunities for others to step up and highlights the depth we're continuing to grow, both for now and the future," Mitchell stated.
The team's defence coach, Sarah Hunter, also sees the current situation as a chance to develop younger players in preparation for the next World Cup in 2029. 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.
Replacements include Connie Powell, Mackenzie Carson, Sarah Bern, Haineala Lutui, Marlie Packer, Flo Robinson, Holly Aitchison, and Mia Venner.