Maddie Feaunati is set to bring her big-game experience back to England's back row as the Red Roses prepare to face New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on Saturday. Feaunati will start at number eight, with Alex Matthews moving to blind-side flanker and Abi Burton named among the replacements.
England's front row also sees changes, with Mackenzie Carson and Sarah Bern starting as props. Hannah Botterman and Maud Muir are poised to come off the bench. Bryony Field retains her position as starting hooker.
The Red Roses' backline remains unchanged for the clash against New Zealand, who are described as England's closest challengers at the top of the world rankings. Head coach John Mitchell stated, "We're moving forward in the right direction whilst building depth in our cover."
New Zealand, who were the last team to defeat England in the previous Women's Rugby World Cup final in November 2022, have won all seven Tests this year under new coach Whitney Hansen. Hansen commented, "Our players are built different, we're made for these moments."