Three changes in the pack
John Mitchell has shaken up his pack. The Red Roses head coach has made three changes for the clash with New Zealand. Maddie Feaunati starts at number 8, while Sarah Bern and Mackenzie Carson move into the front row. The back line stays the same as the one that faced Canada. Mitchell is clearly looking for a bit more balance up front without touching the attack.
Those changes come after a frustrating draw. The Red Roses were held 26-26 by Canada, bringing an end to a 39-match winning run in Tests. A serious record, yes, but one that was brought to a sudden halt with a major tournament now only months away.
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The Black Ferns provide the sternest test
England now turn to the Black Ferns, who sit second in the world rankings. The two sides have not met since 2024. New Zealand remain one of the few teams capable of matching England’s power right now. Mitchell knows it. “Test matches against the best teams in the world are what we love and what we look forward to, especially at Allianz Stadium,” he said.
The venue matters. It was at Allianz Stadium that England lifted the World Cup trophy almost a year ago. Going back there against one of the giants of the women’s game has a certain edge to it for a squad intent on proving they still belong at the very top.
More than 50,000 fans expected
This one should be a big occasion in the stands too. More than 50,000 fans are expected for the showdown, a rare figure for a women’s Test outside a World Cup. Kick-off is set for 3pm UK time. The match will be shown on the BBC and on England Rugby’s YouTube channel, giving plenty of people a chance to watch two of the heavyweights of world rugby go at it.
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