Zoe Aldcroft is set to make her return for England in Sunday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Scotland after missing two pool games with a knee injury.
The Red Roses captain will start at blindside flanker, joining Sadia Kabeya on the openside and Alex Matthews at No. 8. Morwenna Talling shifts back into the second row alongside Rosie Galligan.
In the front row, Hannah Botterman misses out after suffering a back spasm against Australia. Kelsey Clifford steps in at loosehead prop, with Maud Muir at tighthead and Amy Cokayne at hooker.
At fly-half, Holly Aitchison makes her first tournament start after recovering from an ankle injury. She partners Natasha Hunt, who keeps her place at scrum-half.
England will be without full-back Ellie Kildunne, who is sidelined under concussion protocols. Helena Rowland comes in at 15, with Emma Sing covering from the bench. Abby Dow and Jess Breach keep their spots on the wings.
Head coach John Mitchell said the knockout stage brings a new level of focus. “The first stage is behind us. Now we’re in a phase of the competition that has an end point,” he said. “Scotland have improved, but we believe we can build pressure. This is an exciting challenge that we’re ready for.”
Mitchell added that fan support has been “incredible” and expects Bristol to deliver the same atmosphere. “The girls are relishing the opportunity to rise to the occasion,” he said.
