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England’s Alex Matthews Returns Amid Stiff Competition

In an exciting development for England’s Women’s rugby, Alex Matthews is set to make her return in the highly anticipated match against Ireland at Musgrave Park on Saturday. However, she will face formidable competition for the No 8 position from Maddie Feaunati, highlighting the depth and talent within the squad.

This match marks Matthews’ first appearance in the Women’s Six Nations after serving a two-match suspension due to a dangerous tackle during the Premiership final where her club, Gloucester-Hartpury, triumphed over Saracens.

The 31-year-old is stepping in for Feaunati as part of three changes to the lineup that claimed a resounding 67-12 victory over Wales. Feaunati’s impressive performance in the tournament’s opening rounds, including being named player of the match against Italy and scoring two tries at the Principality Stadium, has positioned her as a strong contender for the starting role that Matthews has held since the World Cup in 2022.

Red Roses attack coach Lou Meadows emphasized that Matthews recognizes the competition she faces. “Alex is fully aware of how well Maddie’s going, but she isn’t hesitant to acknowledge that while Maddie is a great player, the shirt is not hers alone,” Meadows stated. This attitude embodies Matthews’ drive for continuous improvement and her commitment to the team’s success over individual accolades.

Meadows further noted Matthews’ focus and determination. “She is always looking to enhance her game and understands that her growth contributes to the overall strength of the Red Roses. It’s about the team, not just personal achievements.”

Adding to this competitive atmosphere, props Maud Muir and Hannah Botterman will also be part of the changes for this pivotal round-three clash, with coach John Mitchell opting for an unchanged backline.

A Landmark Moment for Abby Dow

The match also marks a significant milestone for wing Abby Dow, who will earn her 50th cap, adding to her impressive record of 43 tries in just 49 matches. Her contributions will be crucial as England looks to assert their dominance in the tournament.

Meadows praised Dow’s attributes, stating, “Abby is a remarkable athlete and exhibits both intelligence and dedication on the field. She is not only driven but also shows kindness and commitment to her teammates.”

England’s Starting Lineup Against Ireland

England: 15 Ellie Kildunne, 14 Abby Dow, 13 Megan Jones, 12 Tatyana Heard, 11 Jess Breach, 10 Zoe Harrison, 9 Natasha Hunt; 1 Hannah Botterman, 2 Lark Atkin-Davies, 3 Maud Muir, 4 Morwenna Talling, 5 Abbie Ward, 6 Zoe Aldcroft, 7 Sadia Kabeya, 8 Alex Matthews.

Replacements: 16 Amy Cockayne, 17 Kelsey Clifford, 18 Sarah Bern, 19 Rosie Galligan, 20 Maddie Feaunati, 21 Lucy Packer, 22 Holly Aitchison, 23 Helena Rowland.

Upcoming Women’s Six Nations Fixtures

Saturday, March 22

Ireland 15-27 France
Scotland 24-21 Wales

Sunday, March 23

England 38-5 Italy

Saturday, March 29

France 38-15 Scotland
Wales 12-67 England

Sunday, March 30

Italy 12-54 Ireland

Saturday, April 12

France vs Wales, 12:45pm
Ireland vs England, 4:45pm

Sunday, April 13

Scotland vs Italy, 3pm

Saturday, April 19

Italy vs France, 1pm
England vs Scotland, 4:45pm

Sunday, April 20

Wales vs Ireland, 3pm

Saturday, April 26

Italy vs Wales, 12:15pm
Scotland vs Ireland, 2:30pm
England vs France, 4:45pm

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