England start Holly Aitchison against Ireland in Women’s Six Nations opener
Holly Aitchison will start at fly-half as England face Ireland in their Women’s Six Nations opener at Twickenham, marking the team’s first match since winning the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
John Mitchell’s side return to the scene of their September triumph in front of an expected crowd of over 75,000 at Allianz Stadium.
Uncapped 19-year-old Loughborough Lightning forward Haineala Lutui is named on the bench and could make her international debut.
Rowland and Jones form new midfield partnership
Versatile back Helena Rowland lines up alongside new captain Meg Jones in the centre following an injury to Tatyana Heard.
On the wing, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald replaces the retired Abby Dow and is set to face her wife, Irish hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald.
A major opportunity awaits 22-year-old Lilli Ives Campion in the second row.
The highly-rated lock steps in for pregnant trio Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward and Rosie Galligan.
Mitchell looks to build on World Cup legacy
The head coach has largely stuck with his world-conquering squad, though selecting Aitchison over Zoe Harrison hints at a desire for greater attacking expansion.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to be returning to Allianz Stadium in front of our fans for the first time since the 2025 Rugby World Cup final.
John Mitchell
The players relish, and absolutely deserve, the opportunity to perform in front of record crowds, but they also understand the responsibility that comes with that stage.
John Mitchell
Hooker Connie Powell returns to the matchday squad among the replacements, having missed out on selection for last year’s global tournament.
Veteran flanker Marlie Packer is omitted from the matchday 23 entirely.
Perry set to face former teammates
For the visitors, flanker Erin King returns from injury to captain a relatively settled lineup named by head coach Scott Bemand.
Dannah O’Brien retains the number 10 shirt as the away side look to cause an upset in London.
Prop Ellena Perry will make her first tournament appearance for the girls in green after previously winning 11 caps for the Red Roses prior to switching allegiance.
Eilis Cahill is also among the potential debutants on the bench for the visiting team.
