Mix of experienced players and new faces in England’s Women’s Six Nations squad

England head coach Simon Middleton has named a mix of dependable veterans and uncapped talent in his 42-player training squad for the upcoming Women’s Six Nations.

The Red Roses, who will be looking to claim a fifth consecutive title and fourth straight Grand Slam, begin their 2023 campaign against Scotland at Newcastle’s Kingston Park on Saturday, March 25th.

England start the first of two pre-Championship preparation camps at St George’s Park on Monday, March 6th, with Sarah Hunter and Marlie Packer set to co-captain the side.

Hunter – English rugby’s most-capped player of either gender with 140 appearances – has, said Middleton, “made it clear she will not be involved in the 2025 World Cup as a player, so it’s essential we look to continue to grow our leadership quality and depth.

“Marlie is already an integral part of our leadership group, so this is a natural progression for her to co-captain the side and continue to develop her leadership skills.”

Flanker Packer, who plays her club rugby with Allianz Premier 15s side Saracens, has 89 caps for her country, while Harlequins hooker Amy Cokayne (70 caps), Saracens forward Poppy Cleall (63 caps), Gloucester-Hartpury scrum-half Natasha ‘Mo’ Hunt (60 caps) and Bristol Bears centre Amber Reed (62 caps) are among those set to lend an experienced presence to the side.

Middleton, who announced he would step down at the conclusion of this year’s tournament, also invited nine uncapped players to camp including Ellie Rugman, May Campbell, Emily Robinson, Kelsey Clifford, Liz Crake, Hannah Sims, Nancy McGillivray, Elizabeth Duffy and Ella Wyrwas.

Middleton said: “There are a number of new faces in this squad and while we are missing experienced players, this is a great