LOUGHBOROUGH
DISCUSSION POINTS
There’s no bigger point to consider for Lightning than what will happen to their England stars after the World Cup. With Sarah Hunter and Emily Scarratt on the books, a lot will ride on their post-tournament situations.
It wouldn’t be beyond the realm of possibility that Hunter chooses to retire, especially if the Red Roses win the trophy. While Scarratt stepping away is considerably less likely, her returning fit is imperative to the success of the team; after she was injured in their first game last season, Lightning spiralled.
KEY PLAYER
No-nonsense flanker Sadia Kabeya has grown so much since her debut for Richmond a few seasons back, becoming a key cog in Wasps’ impressive run to third in 2020-21 and a bright spot for Lightning last year.
A ferocious tackler, turnover threat and increasingly a very good carrier, Kabeya is already one of the most important players for this team and a future mainstay in the England back row.
ONE TO WATCH
Lilli Ives Campion will form half of a hugely impressive and very young lock pairing next season alongside Morwenna Talling, who is already one of the brightest talents in the league. Where Talling is a wrecking ball, Campion is a more subtle carrier with a good pair of hands and surprising pace.
WHAT’ S REALISTIC?
Anywhere from fourth to seventh wouldn’t surprise. If Lightning can keep their momentum going, then a charge into the top four is possible but middle of the pack is their most likely landing spot.
FAN’ S VIEW
BodaSmith-Batchelor: “The emphasis on player development at Lightning means that every season unknown players appear in the squad and go on to make a name for themselves in the AP15s. So expect amazing new talents to make their mark in the team most likely to take the Premier 15s by surprise.”