The Red Roses' Ellie Kildunne and Botterman Ready to Face France in Semi-final
Ellie Kildunne is back in the England starting lineup as among four adjustments for their World Cup semi-final clash against France on Saturday.
Returning Stars and Team Adjustments
The full-back was absent from the England’s quarter-final win against the Scots as she completed head injury assessments, with Helena Rowland stepping in at full-back.
Helena Rowland has been listed in the replacements for the semi-final at the Bristol venue, while England have also restored Botterman at loosehead prop, Ward in the second row and Zoe Harrison at number 10 to the lineup.
Kelsey Clifford, Rosie Galligan and Aitchison join Rowland in the substitutes as a result.
Team Formation
Elsewhere, Abby Dow and Jess Breach form the three-quarters alongside Kildunne, with Jones and Heard the centre partnership once again.
Skipper Zoe Aldcroft starts at blindside flanker, with Sadia Kabeya at openside flanker and Alex Matthews at No8. Talling retains her place in the second row after being awarded best on field against the Scottish team.
Hooker Amy Cokayne and prop Muir start in the front row and combine with Hannah for the third match this competition.
Coach’s Confidence
The venue set the stage for a impressive performance in challenging conditions last weekend, and the girls are excited to get back out there for the semi-final,” said the head coach.
“We’ve earned this stage, and now we’ve got another opportunity to earn the right. Our approach is successful and is the right way; by working together we’ll keep progressing.”
“France have encountered obstacles, and that will motivate them – we anticipate it. We don’t need to be perfect, just effective, disciplined, and prepared for the battle. We’re ready and ready to compete.”
Prize at Stake
Whoever wins the semi-final clash will meet either the Canadians or New Zealand in the final, with their last four match scheduled on the day before.
Red Roses Lineup
Starters: Kildunne, Dow, Jones, Tatyana Heard, Breach; Harrison, Lucy Hunt; Botterman, Cokayne, Muir, Morwenna Talling, Ward, Aldcroft, Sadia Kabeya, Matthews.
Bench: Atkin-Davies, Clifford, Sarah Bern, Galligan, Poppy Feaunati, Leanne Infante, Holly Aitchison, Helena Rowland.
