Overview

• Helena Rowland will start at fly-half for the first time in three years, moving from her usual center position, as England faces Italy in their opening match.
• Emma Sing, Mia Venner, and Claudia MacDonald form a new back three, with Sing replacing World Player of the Year Ellie Kildunne in the starting lineup.
• England head coach John Mitchell emphasizes experimentation, using the tournament to test player combinations ahead of the Rugby World Cup later this year.
• France remains England’s closest rival despite injuries to key players, while Ireland is seen as a potential disruptor after a strong showing in WXV 1.
• Wales, Italy, and Scotland focus on rebuilding, with Wales expected to struggle, Italy aiming for consistency under a new coach, and Scotland targeting mid-table improvement.