Natasha Hunt ruled out of England's clash with Italy

Natasha Hunt has been ruled out of England Women's clash with Italy in the Six Nations due to injury.

Hunt picked up the knock in training and has been replaced by Bianca Blackburn, from Worcester Valkyries, in the squad for Saturday's game, which is live on Sky Sports.

Lydia Thompson and Danielle Waterman, who are the joint top try-scorers in the competition, are rested for the match at 1pm at the Twickenham Stoop.

England have made eight changes with Sarah McKenna starting at full-back with Kay Wilson on the wing, while Emily Scott and La Toya Mason form an all-new half-back partnership.

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Rachel Burford is included in midfield while front rowers Justine Lucas and Vicky Fleetwood and flanker Alex Matthews all start.

Captain Sarah Hunter will move to joint fourth on the list of all-time Test appearances for England as she wins her 88th cap.

Coach Simon Middleton said: "Saturday will provide players who have trained hard week in, week out, with an opportunity to show what they have to offer on the pitch."

Middleton's side have won their opening two matches, defeating France before thrashing Wales 63-0 earlier this month, while Italy have suffered successive defeats.