England Women name team to play USA in Women's Rugby World Cup
Wednesday 16 August 2017 14:47, UK
England Women's head coach Simon Middleton has made 10 changes, four positional, to his team against USA in the Women's World Cup Pool B decider in Dublin on Thursday.
The reigning champions have two wins from two after first beating Spain 56-5 and then Italy 56-13. But USA are equal on points and also undefeated in the group.
Women's Rugby World Cup 2017
Among the changes, Sarah Hunter returns to captain the side at No 8, while England centre Rachael Burford is set to make her 70th international appearance off the bench.
"This is a winner takes all game in terms of topping the pool," Middleton said. "It will require a full 23 squad effort to get the job done.
"We know playing against USA will be tough" he added. "They play a very physical game and have some dangerous players on the ball, but we have prepared well and the squad are in a good place, not only physically but mentally.
"We have confidence in the entire squad and it's now about going out and making sure we put in a full 80 minute performance."
The Red Roses and the USA have met in four previous World Cups, the first in 1991 where England lost 19-6 in the final in Cardiff.
But, England learnt from their mistakes as they beat USA in the 1994, 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
