England Women head coach Simon Middleton has named his team to play New Zealand at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Sunday afternoon (kick-off: 2.45pm).
Three members of the Saints x Loughborough Lightning squad are included in the matchday 23, with Helena Rowland starting in the centres and both Sarah Hunter and Lark Davies named amongst the replacements.
The match is the second of back-to-back clashes between the first and second ranked sides in the world.
In their first outing, the Red Roses recorded a record-breaking 43-12 victory over the Black Ferns in front of 9,748 fans at Sandy Park – with another bumper crowd expected for this Sunday’s clash in Northampton.
Middleton said: “We were absolutely delighted with the performance and the result last week. We were really proud of the players, and it was a privilege to be part of such a special occasion.
“We know this weekend is another huge game but it’s one we’ve prepared well in Northampton, and it’s that preparation that gives us the confidence and belief that we can perform not only to the same level, but hopefully even higher this weekend.”
Simon Middleton, Head Coach
“Playing against New Zealand is always a big occasion. They have quality players across their group and like us are fiercely proud of playing for their country; make no mistake this weekend will be tougher than last, but we are more than ready.
“Lastly, we’re really looking forward to playing at Franklin’s Gardens. Northampton is a proper rugby hotbed, a magnificent stadium to play in and all the players and staff can’t wait for Sunday’s game.”
England Women team to play New Zealand
15 Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 16 caps)
14 Lydia Thompson (Worcester Warriors, 48 caps)
13 Holly Aitchison (Saracens, 1 cap)
12 Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning, 7 caps)
11 Abby Dow (Wasps, 19 caps)
10 Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 31 caps)
9 Leanne Infante (VC; Bristol Bears, 45 caps)
1 Vickii Cornborough (Harlequins, 61 caps)
2 Amy Cokayne (Harlequins, 58 caps)
3 Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 37 caps)
4 Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury, 25 caps)
5 Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears, 48 caps)
6 Alex Matthews (Worcester Warriors, 42 caps)
7 Marlie Packer (Saracens, 77 caps)
8 Poppy Cleall (C; Saracens, 48 caps)
Finishers:
16 Lark Davies (Loughborough Lightning, 32 caps)
17 Hannah Botterman (Saracens, 23 caps)
18 Maud Muir (Wasps, 1 cap)
19 Harriet Millar-Mills (Wasps, 63 caps)
20 Sarah Hunter (Loughborough Lightning, 127 caps)
21 Claudia MacDonald (Wasps, 16 caps)
22 Lagi Tuima (Harlequins, 9 caps)
23 Sarah McKenna (Saracens, 37 caps)
Tickets for this Sunday’s clash are still on sale from £15 adult / £5 child (plus £1.50 booking fee) – if you haven’t already secured yours, CLICK HERE to purchase now.
