England have confirmed their matchday 23 for the Rugby World Cup final against Canada, sticking with the same squad that overcame France in the semi-finals. This marks the first time during the tournament that head coach John Mitchell has opted not to make changes, underlining his confidence in the group that delivered a convincing 35-17 victory last weekend.
Jess Breach, the Red Roses’ leading tryscorer with six tries, and World Rugby player of the year nominee Meg Jones will both start, making them the only players to feature in every game for England throughout the World Cup. Their consistency has been crucial in England’s unbeaten run to the final.
Ellie Kildunne, who earned the player-of-the-match award against France, once again lines up at full-back. She will be joined in the back three by Abby Dow on the right wing and Breach on the left. In midfield, Jones combines with Tatyana Heard, while Zoe Harrison and Natasha Hunt resume their half-back partnership.
The forward pack remains unchanged, with Hannah Botterman, Amy Cokayne, and Maud Muir forming a powerful front row. Abbie Ward partners Morwenna Talling in the second row, while captain Zoe Aldcroft leads from the back row alongside Sadia Kabeya and Alex Matthews. Matthews and Hunt bring invaluable experience, having featured in the 2014 World Cup final when England last lifted the trophy after defeating Canada in Paris.
Mitchell emphasized the significance of the occasion, highlighting that playing in front of a record 82,000 fans at Allianz Stadium represents a milestone moment for women’s rugby. He acknowledged the strength of Canada, currently ranked second in the world, stressing that the contest will demand complete focus and discipline for the full 80 minutes.
England enter the final with the aim of ending a run of back-to-back defeats in the last two World Cup finals, both against New Zealand. Canada, meanwhile, are chasing their first-ever title and will be motivated to create history. With the two top-ranked teams in the world meeting on rugby’s biggest stage, fans can expect a fiercely competitive battle for the crown.
