Scott takes charge of new-look England
ENGLAND centre Emily Scarratt will sit out the women’s Six Nations clash away to Wales as second row Abbie Scott captains the side.
Scarratt is replaced by Harlequins’ Rachael Burford as head coach Simon Middleton makes nine changes to the side that triumphed over France last time out.
The Red Roses, who beat Wales 52-0 the last time the sides met in the 2018 Six Nations, have won both their opening Tests comprehensively in this year’s Championship, beating Ireland 41-7 at Donnybrook and reigning Grand Slam champions France 41-26 in Doncaster.
“While we were extremely pleased with our first half performance against France we were disappointed with our defensive efforts in the second half,” Middleton said.
“Defensively, we were nowhere near the level that we want to be at or that we expect of ourselves.
“This disappointment has served as a great motivator for us going into this weekend’s fixture against Wales which we know will be a huge occasion.
“Wales will undoubtedly be buoyed by having gone from conceding over 50 points in their opening game against France to conceding only three against a strong Italy side.
“This, combined with our upcoming game being their first home fixture of this year’s Six Nations, will give Wales great confidence going into the weekend.”
Harlequins lock Scott will lead the side with usual captain Sarah Hunter named on the bench, while Harlequins centre and 2014 World Cup winner Burford, and Wasps winger Abby Dow, make their first appearances this Six Nations.
After being rested against France, openside Marlie Packer returns to the line-up alongside blindside Sarah Beckett, while Gloucester-Hartpury No.9 Natasha Hunt, Saracens fly-half Zoe Harrison and Wasps hooker Amy Cokayne all make their maiden starts.
Flanker Alex Callender will make her first start for Wales in a team showing five changes from the 3-3 draw with Italy.
The 18-year-old Callender is picked in the back row ahead of Manon Johnes, with Mel Clay returning at lock after injury.
Elinor Snowsill comes in at full-back with Hannah Bluck and Jess Kavanagh included at centre and left wing.
“Alex has impressed off the bench in both our Six Nations games so far and deserves a chance,” said head coach Rowland Phillips.
“England are such a powerful team and that gives them attacking opportunities. It will be up to us to meet that physical challenge but it’s tests like these that can make players and teams.
“We are determined to continue to develop as a team and compete against the best sides in the world. We know we still have a lot of work to do but there is a lot of momentum in our young group and in the talent coming through in Wales at the moment.”