Get ready for some exciting rugby action as the Red Roses prepare for the upcoming Six Nations tournament! The journey to the top is paved with fresh talent and a new era of English rugby is about to begin.
Among the 47-strong training squad, 11 uncapped players are making their mark, including the talented Sophie Hopkins. Hopkins, an England Under-20s wing, is currently studying biochemistry abroad and playing for French top-flight side Lyon. She's joined by four Trailfinders Women forwards - Jasmine Adonri, Haidee Head, Hayley Jones, and Annabel Meta - all eager to earn their first caps.
But here's where it gets controversial... While some players are making their way into the squad, others are being overlooked. Bo Westcombe-Evans, who has scored an impressive five tries in eight games since her comeback from a serious knee injury, is not included. This decision might spark some debate among fans and experts alike.
And this is the part most people miss... The squad includes all 32 players who won the Rugby World Cup in September, except for the retired Emily Scarratt and Abby Dow. Lark Atkin-Davies, who is expecting a child in June, will join the squad and follow a personalized training program. It's a unique situation, and it will be interesting to see how the team adapts.
Head coach John Mitchell emphasizes the importance of this camp, stating, "As we enter a new cycle, this camp will focus on aligning our communication and resetting our culture to win." He believes that the regeneration process in rugby presents exciting opportunities for young players, and their ability to adapt quickly will enhance their chances.
England is on track to break attendance records for a Women's Six Nations match when they face Ireland at Allianz Stadium Twickenham on April 11th. With over 50,000 tickets already sold, three months before the match, it's clear that the excitement is building.
So, who are these talented individuals ready to make their mark on the rugby world? Here's a breakdown of the squad:
Forwards:
- Lark Atkin-Davies (Bristol Bears)
- Maisy Allen (Exeter Chiefs)
- Jasmine Adonri (Trailfinders Women)
- Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears)
- Hannah Botterman (Bristol Bears)
- Abi Burton (Trailfinders Women)
- May Campbell (Saracens)
- Mackenzie Carson (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Kelsey Clifford (Saracens)
- Amy Cokayne (Sale Sharks)
- Steph Else (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Maddie Feaunati (Exeter Chiefs)
- Keevy Fitzpatrick (Loughborough Lightning)
- Rosie Galligan (Saracens)
- Lizzie Hanlon (Harlequins)
- Haidee Head (Trailfinders Women)
- Lilli Ives Campion (Loughborough Lightning)
- Hayley Jones (Trailfinders Women)
- Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning)
- Haineala Lutui (Loughborough Lightning)
- Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Annabel Meta (Trailfinders Women)
- Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Marlie Packer (Saracens)
- Connie Powell (Harlequins)
- Zoe Stratford (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Morwenna Talling (Sale Sharks)
- Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears)
- Nicole Wythe (Harlequins)
Backs:
- Holly Aitchison (Sale Sharks)
- Jess Breach (Saracens)
- Millie David (Bristol Bears)
- Zoe Harrison (Saracens)
- Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Sophie Hopkins (LOU Rugby)
- Natasha Hunt (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Megan Jones (Trailfinders Women)
- Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins)
- Claudia Moloney-MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs)
- Lucy Packer (Harlequins)
- Sarah Parry (Harlequins)
- Flo Robinson (Exeter Chiefs)
- Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning)
- Jade Shekells (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Emma Sing (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Mia Venner (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Ella Wyrwas (Saracens)
The stage is set, and the Red Roses are ready to roar! Will this squad live up to expectations and dominate the Six Nations? Only time will tell. What are your thoughts on the squad selection? Do you think these players have what it takes to make history? Feel free to share your opinions and predictions in the comments below!
