Kildunne shifts to wing and Burton to play at lock as England ring changes

England’s Women’s Six Nations squad has introduced a fresh configuration for their clash against Scotland on Saturday, with Ellie Kildunne stepping into a new role at wing and Abi Burton moving to lock. This marks Kildunne’s debut in the wing position during the tournament, as the 26-year-old transitions from her usual full-back spot. The lineup reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, aiming to adapt to the challenges posed by Scotland’s attacking strengths.

Among the notable adjustments, Zoe Harrison returns to the fly-half role, reclaiming the number 10 jersey from Holly Aitchison. Meanwhile, Abi Burton, a back-row player, fills in at lock, highlighting England’s need to bolster their front row after the absence of several key players. Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, and Rosie Galligan—England’s primary locks—are all sidelined due to pregnancies, while Morwenna Talling misses the game following a leg injury sustained in the tournament opener against Ireland.

The team has also welcomed Bristol’s Demelza Short, the 19-year-old rising star, into the back row for her debut. Gloucester-Hartpury’s Emma Sing steps into the full-back position, bringing a strong kicking presence to the squad. Coach John Mitchell emphasizes the significance of these changes, hoping they will foster growth among younger players while maintaining England’s dominance in the competition.

England seeks their eighth consecutive Women’s Six Nations title, but the absence of several key contributors from last year’s Rugby World Cup campaign adds pressure. Axed from the lineup is number eight Alex Matthews, who is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and prop Hannah Botterman, who joins the injured list with an ankle issue. The replacements include Maud Muir, who starts at tighthead in place of Sarah Bern, and a roster of experienced players like Marlie Packer and Mia Venner.

Scotland, meanwhile, prepares to host England at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, where a record crowd of over 25,000 is anticipated. The match, the largest standalone women’s sporting event in Scotland’s history, presents a unique opportunity for the visitors to capitalize on any lapses in England’s strategy. Scotland’s fly-half Helen Nelson, known for her high number of kicks out of hand in the English top flight, is expected to target spaces created by Kildunne’s new position. Rhona Lloyd, Kildunne’s opposite number, has already scored 11 league tries for Sale this season.

England’s lineup: Sing; Breach, Jones (capt), Rowland, Kildunne; Harrison, L Packer; Clifford, Cokayne, Muir, Burton, Ives Campion, Short, Kabeya, Feaunati. Replacements: Powell, Carson, Bern, Lutui, M Packer, Robinson, Aitchison, Venner.