The Red Roses enter the Women’s Rugby World Cup with the weight of expectation firmly on their shoulders, knowing they are the team everyone wants to beat. Ranked No 1 in the world and widely regarded as tournament favourites, England’s squad has made it clear they welcome the challenge of being “hunted.”
Their campaign begins on Friday night in Sunderland against the USA, with a record-breaking 40,000 fans set to pack into the Stadium of Light for the opening clash. England will field the same starting XV that dominated France 40-6 in their final warm-up, with only a few key players sidelined through injury but expected back later in the group stages.
The squad boasts both experience and exciting new talent. Emily Scarratt, in line to win her 119th cap, will become the first England player to appear in five World Cups, bringing invaluable leadership to the bench. Alongside her, Kelsey Clifford and Emma Sing could make their tournament debuts if called upon. At the other end of the spectrum, full-back Ellie Kildunne, crowned world player of the year, and winger Abby Dow, the Six Nations top try-scorer, bring electric pace and finishing power to the backline.
Gloucester-Hartpury’s Natasha Hunt returns to the global stage for the first time since 2017, starting at scrum-half with Zoe Harrison at fly-half. Captain Zoe Aldcroft leads from blindside flanker, supported by Sadia Kabeya at openside and Alex Matthews at No 8. Notably absent is former captain Marlie Packer, who has not been named in the 23 for the opener.
England’s recent history against the USA includes a commanding 61-21 victory at last year’s WXV 1, but the Americans have since sharpened their edge in the Pacific Four tournament. The Red Roses know every opponent will raise their game against them, but insist their focus remains inward: delivering performances above their own high standards.
Off the pitch, the team hopes this tournament will serve as a landmark for women’s rugby, building on the momentum of the Lionesses in football. Aldcroft expressed pride in playing the opening match in northern England, highlighting the significance of engaging new audiences and inspiring future generations.
The stage is set. With a balance of hardened veterans and fearless young talent, the Red Roses begin their quest for silverware fully aware of the target on their backs yet determined to turn the hunt into history.
