In a significant roster change ahead of the key match in the Women’s Six Nations, England will compete against France without their star full-back, Ellie Kildunne, who is sidelined due to a hamstring injury. This match not only represents a rivalry but also a decisive moment in which either England or France could earn Grand Slam honors.
Kildunne, widely recognized for her role in helping England dominate the tournament, is unable to participate as the coaching staff prioritizes her long-term health. England’s head coach, John Mitchell, stated, “Kildunne could actually play but her hamstring is something we want to get right. We don’t want to lose Ellie as a result of stretching it any further, and it means we can back our squad.”
Mitchell expressed confidence that Kildunne will return in time for the team’s World Cup preparations in June, alleviating concerns about her absence in the long term.
Emma Sing has been named as Kildunne’s replacement, alongside a strategic alteration in the fly-half position where Zoe Harrison has been chosen to start over Holly Aitchison.
England’s Starting XV to Face France:
- Hannah Botterman
- Lark Atkin-Davies
- Maud Muir
- Morwenna Talling
- Abbie Ward
- Zoe Aldcroft
- Maddie Feaunati
- Alex Matthews
- Natasha Hunt
- Zoe Harrison
- Claudia MacDonald
- Tatyana Heard
- Megan Jones
- Abby Dow
- Emma Sing
Replacements: Amy Cokayne, Kelsey Clifford, Sarah Bern, Rosie Galligan, Abi Burton, Lucy Packer, Holly Aitchison, Helena Rowland
This match is anticipated not only for its competitive edge but also for its implications in the tournament standings, with both teams aiming for a triumphant finish to the Six Nations. Fans and analysts will be closely watching how England adapts to Kildunne’s absence and whether their depth can sustain the level of performance needed in this crucial fixture.
