Confidence is booming after beating world’s best
ENGLAND will be the team with a target on their back following their successful tour of New Zealand, but head coach Simon Middleton is confident his side will handle the pressure.
The Red Roses go into next week’s championship top of the world rankings and favourites to defend their crown after defeating Australia, Canada and New Zealand in the space of eight days this summer.
They have been dealt a blow with fly-half Emily Scott forced to withdraw through injury but Middleton, below, remains resolute.
He said: “While its disappointing for Emily, we hope to have her fit and ready on standby if required later in the tournament.
“We are confident we have an incredibly strong squad, made up of hugely experienced players who have featured in previous World Cups and other major tournaments such as the Olympics. “At the same time, we have younger players who have been involved in a Grand Slam-winning side and a successful three-Test series against some of the best teams in the world. “Our focus has always been on going to Ireland to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup. To do that we are going to have to give more than in any competition we’ve played over the past year.” Middleton has named a squad of significant experience, sharing a total of 1,996 caps, with Rachael Burford, Rochelle Clark, Tamara Taylor and Danielle Waterman all appearing in their fourth consecutive World Cup. Bristol No.8 Sarah Hunter, who captained the team to their first Six Nations Grand Slam since 2012 earlier this season, will once again be in chargecentre named as Emilywithvice captain. superstarScarratt Hooker Vicky Fleetwood has remained in England for further rehab on a minor injury. Poppy Cleall, who has 12 caps, has been called up as a replacement. “With Vicky remaining in England for the time being, we have opted to call up Poppy, who offers us a bit more balance in the forwards,” explained Middleton. England begin their campaign against Spain in Dublin on Wednesday.