Bristol, england - England captain zoe Aldcroft will return to the starting lineup for SaturdayS Women’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Scotland, bolstering the team’s experienced back row alongside Sadia Kabeya and Alex Matthews. Aldcroft’s return comes after Morwenna Talling‘s strong performance against Australia, which secured England’s top spot in Pool A.
The inclusion of the former World Player of the Year is a critically important boost as England enters the knockout stage. Talling will move to the second row to partner Rosie Galligan, with Abbie Ward named as a replacement. England’s last defeat against Scotland dates back to 1999, and they convincingly won the last fixture between the sides 59-7 in April.
Scotland qualified for their first Women’s World Cup quarter-final since 2002 with wins over Wales and Fiji, but suffered a 40-19 loss to Canada in their final pool match.
“We are adapting well to different situations, and while we recognise Scotland have improved, we will still believe we can build pressure on them,” said England head coach John Mitchell. “This is an exciting challenge that we’re ready for.
“We trust our girls to be consistent, take ownership of their roles, embrace the occasion, and earn the right to another week in this competition.”
Mitchell also highlighted the growing support for the tournament, stating, “The enthusiasm surrounding the tournament has been incredible, with support growing across the country. We certainly know Bristol will be no different, and the girls are relishing the opportunity to rise to the occasion.”
