Millie David to make Red Roses debut against Wales as England’s lock crisis deepens

Lock Delaney Burns returns to the Red Roses fold (Getty)

“Wales are a side that over-commit at the contest, which will challenge us in a different way. It’s one we’re looking forward to, and an opportunity to keep evolving our game beyond the level we’ve started to build. Under Sean Lynn, Wales are improving, playing with greater clarity and enthusiasm, and we know we’ll have to earn that right again.

“For us, it’s about elevating our game. That means being courageous in our skillsets, building better connections, and owning our decisions. I love this side when it embraces those challenges, especially in front of a sold-out Ashton Gate.”

England have won their last 35 matches and not lost in this competition since 2018, though their depth is being severely tested during this campaign. Hannah Botterman, Tatyana Heard and Alex Matthews are among other regular first-choice starters currently out of action.

Ives Campion had stepped as Mitchell’s lineout leader and a figure of real importance within the starting pack, and it is hoped she may return for the final two fixtures against Italy and France.

England XV to face Wales in Bristol (Saturday 25 April, 2.15pm BST): 1 Mackenzie Carson, 2 Amy Cokayne, 3 Sarah Bern; 4 Abi Burton, 5 Delaney Burns; 6 Sadia Kabeya, 7 Marlie Packer, 8 Maddie Feaunati; 9 Lucy Packer, 10 Holly Aitchison; 11 Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, 12 Helena Rowland, 13 Meg Jones (capt.), 14 Millie David; 15 Ellie Kildunne.

Replacements: 16 Connie Powell, 17 Kelsey Clifford, 18 Maud Muir, 19 Haineala Lutui, 20 Demelza Short; 21 Flo Robinson, 22 Zoe Harrison, 23 Jess Breach.