Two Chiefs in the Red Roses Squad to take on Canada

Maisy Allen during the WXV1 Match between England and Australia Wallaroos in Wellington, New Zealand

The Red Roses have made nine changes to their starting line-up to play Canada in Round 2 of WXV1.

Full-back Ellie Kildunne, who has three tries in her last two outings against the Canadians, and wing Claudia MacDonald return to the back three alongside Abby Dow.

Helena Rowland switches to outside centre, linking up with incoming midfielder Amber Reed, and scrum-half Natasha Hunt is named as Holly Aitchison’s half-back partner.

A fresh front row sees Mackenzie Carson, Lark Atkin-Davies and Sarah Bern start, while Cath O’Donnell is back in the second row beside Zoe Aldcroft.

Morwenna Talling is selected at blindside flanker as captain Marlie Packer and Alex Matthews continue at openside flanker and Number 8 respectively.

Interim head coach Louis Deacon said:

“We’ve named a team that we believe gives us the best opportunity to build on our momentum after the game last weekend.

“The energy has been positive throughout our time in New Zealand, and it’s been a great start to our time in Dunedin as we prepare for the next round of WXV.

“Our Summer Series matches against Canada were the perfect warm-up for WXV and we have no doubt they will provide a stern test once again on Friday night.”