Allen to win first England cap

Exeter Chiefs back-row Maisy Allen is on the cusp of winning her first cap for England on Saturday as she returns to her home ground for the Red Roses game against Canada’s Women’s Rugby Team.

Allen is no stranger to international duty having played for England U20s and wearing the captain’s armband against Scotland Futures last year, but after six-weeks of training with the England squad at Chester Rugby Union Football Club and then Pennyhill Park Hotel in Surrey, she is now eager to get her first England cap on home turf.

Allen said: “It was quite daunting going to start with…they were the people you looked up to and had wanted to be forever! But everyone has been so lovely. It’s a really good culture.”

On her selection, the 22-year-old added: “It was amazing! If you weren’t in the squad, you were going to get a call on Sunday night. It got to 7pm and I had not had a call, but I still did not believe it until I saw the team sheet on the Monday.

“I get to play at Sandy Park with all my family and friends there and my team-mates. It feels really surreal.”

Due to be watched by her parents, her sister and family friends at Sandy Park, Allen will face club colleagues DaLeaka Menin, Alex Tessier and Emily Tuttosi on the opposing team.

“It’s going to be weird playing against them because I know they are such strong and powerful players on the pitch, so I know what to expect!”

Allen has been at Chiefs for two seasons having arrived from Gloucester-Hartpury in the summer of 2021 and has made 34 appearances since then and scored 23 tries. She credits much of her recent success to head coach Susie Appleby.

“Susie has been massive in my development. I settled in during my first year here and then got a great opportunity last season that allowed me to get into a bit of a flow. Susie and Steve (assistant coach Salvin) trusted me as a young player and without that game time and experience, I would not be here now.”

Exeter Chiefs head coach Susie Appleby said: “It is every player’s dream to represent their country. For Maisy to play her first senior cap at Sandy Park, it’s even more special.

“We have watched Maisy grow over the last few seasons. She leads from the front, she puts her body on the line, she inspires with her actions and her words. And she works so hard to be better every day.

“It is her time. We couldn’t be prouder and wish her the most fantastic day in front of her home fans and her family.”

The Red Roses v Canada game kicks off 2.30pm at Sandy Park on Saturday. Tickets are still available, and supporters are urged to come and support their Chiefs women on both sides. Season ticket holders are reminded this game is not part of their package. The England v Chile game will be shown on screens around the ground after the women’s game.