England’s head coach, John Mitchell, has introduced four key changes to the Red Roses lineup ahead of their crucial clash against France in the semi-final of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. The match is scheduled for March 30, 2024, at Ashton Gate in Bristol. Full-back Ellie Kildunne and prop Hannah Botterman return to the starting XV after being rested during the quarter-final victory over Scotland.
Fly-half Zoe Harrison and lock Abbie Ward have been promoted from the bench, showcasing Mitchell’s strategic adjustments as England aims to continue their successful run in the tournament. Notably, wing Jess Breach, who has scored six tries throughout the competition, remains a key player in the lineup, alongside Megan Jones, who has also started every match thus far.
In addition, Abby Dow, who recently achieved the milestone of 50 tries for England, takes her place on the wing. The backline is rounded out by scrum-half Natasha Hunt and inside centre Tatyana Heard. Botterman’s return to the front row marks a reunion with hooker Amy Cokayne and tighthead prop Maud Muir, as they prepare for their third match together in the tournament.
Mitchell expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, stating, “Ashton Gate set the stage for a strong performance in tough conditions last weekend, and the girls are eager to get back out there for the semi-final.” He emphasized the importance of teamwork, saying, “Our game is working and is the right way; by working together we’ll keep getting better.”
England’s formidable lineup boasts a wealth of experience, with captain Zoe Aldcroft leading a back row that includes Sadia Kabeya and Alex Matthews. The Red Roses have a remarkable track record against France, winning their last 18 matches since 2018. However, recent encounters have been closely contested, with England narrowly winning 43-42 earlier this year and 38-33 in 2023, both times facing significant comebacks from their rivals.
Mitchell acknowledges the challenges that France poses, stating, “France have faced challenges, and that will drive them – we expect it. We don’t need to be perfect, just effective, focused, and ready for the fight. We’re excited and ready to hunt them.”
### England’s Team for the Semi-Final
The complete starting lineup for England against France features:
– 15. Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 55 caps)
– 14. Abby Dow (Unattached, 57 caps)
– 13. Megan Jones (Trailfinders Women, 31 caps)
– 12. Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury, 34 caps)
– 11. Jess Breach (Saracens, 51 caps)
– 10. Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 63 caps)
– 9. Natasha Hunt (Gloucester-Hartpury, 85 caps)
– 1. Hannah Botterman (Bristol Bears, 60 caps)
– 2. Amy Cokayne (Sale Sharks, 87 caps)
– 3. Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury, 46 caps)
– 4. Morwenna Talling (Sale Sharks, 26 caps)
– 5. Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears, 79 caps)
– 6. Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury, 67 caps) – Captain
– 7. Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning, 26 caps)
– 8. Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury, 79 caps)
The bench includes:
– 16. Lark Atkin-Davies (Bristol Bears, 72 caps)
– 17. Kelsey Clifford (Saracens, 19 caps)
– 18. Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 77 caps)
– 19. Rosie Galligan (Saracens, 29 caps)
– 20. Maddie Feaunati (Exeter Chiefs, 21 caps)
– 21. Lucy Packer (Harlequins, 37 caps)
– 22. Holly Aitchison (Sale Sharks, 42 caps)
– 23. Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning, 44 caps)
As the Red Roses prepare to take the field, anticipation builds for a thrilling semi-final that promises to showcase the best of women’s rugby.
