England absences mount for Six Nations opener after pregnancies and injuries

Hannah Botterman ruled out of opener by ankle blow
Ellie Kildunne to start as full-back at home to Ireland

England are in danger of losing a ninth World Cup winner for the Women’s Six Nations after the prop Hannah Botterman was ruled out of the team’s opener against Ireland with an ankle injury amid doubts over whether she will play any part in the tournament.

The Red Roses head coach, John Mitchell, said they will have confirmation on Botterman’s return timeline next week; Kelsey Clifford has been selected to start on the loosehead at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium. England are already contending with injuries, two retirements, and four pregnancies; Rosie Galligan, whose partner is her England teammate Marlie Packer, the latest to announce she is expecting earlier this week.