Mitchell reshapes Red Roses lineup for Canada series opener

England’s Red Roses have named a 23-player squad for the first of three WXV Global Series Tests against Canada, scheduled for Saturday at Sandy Park in Exeter. Head coach John Mitchell has implemented nine changes to the starting lineup, a significant rotation that signals a strategic approach to the upcoming international fixtures.

The most notable returns are Jess Breach at right wing and Alex Matthews at No 8, both of whom played major roles in England’s victory over Canada in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup final. Their reinstatement underscores the continuity Mitchell seeks to maintain as the team prepares to face the world’s number three side.

In the front row, hooker Bryony Field earns her maiden international start following a try on her debut in last weekend’s 48-15 win over Australia. She will join Hannah Botterman and Maud Muir in an all-changed front row, while Morwenna Talling returns to the second row.

Lucy Packer, another try scorer against the Wallaroos, is named at scrum-half with Zoe Harrison at fly-half. Helena Rowland is reinstated to the midfield alongside captain Meg Jones, providing stability in the engine room.

The squad includes three Exeter Chiefs players—Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, Maddie Feaunati, and Flo Robinson—as the Red Roses return to their club stadium for the first time since September 2023. The team carries a combined 974 Test caps, with 14 players in the matchday 23 having been part of the World Cup final triumph.

Mitchell acknowledged the significance of the series, noting that the rivalry with Canada has evolved to a high level. “They are a well-coached team who will bring a different challenge to the one Australia presented. We will be expected to raise our standards,” he said.

The Red Roses will next face New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on 26 September before travelling to Toronto and Ottawa for the remaining Tests in October.