England captain Zoe Aldcroft will miss the rest of the Women's Rugby World Cup pool stage matches due to a knee injury. The setback represents a major blow to England's campaign as they continue their World Cup journey.
The Red Roses have made 13 changes to their starting XV for Saturday's match against Samoa in Northampton. The extensive rotation demonstrates the squad depth available to head coach John Mitchell following their dominant previous performance.
New leadership opportunity
Marlie Packer will captain England in Aldcroft's absence, taking on the leadership role for the crucial pool stage fixture. According to the Morning Star, Packer is making her first appearance since serving a one-match ban for a dangerous clear-out against Spain.
The Yorkshire Post reports that Aldcroft is Scarborough-born, adding a regional connection to the story. Only two players survive from the starting XV that scored 11 tries in the previous match in Sunderland, according to the Morning Star.
World Cup progression
England's pool stage campaign continues with the Samoa clash before concluding with a match against Australia on September 6, as reported by the Morning Star. The team changes reflect Mitchell's strategic approach to squad rotation throughout the tournament.
The injury to Aldcroft, a key figure in England's World Cup ambitions, will test the squad's depth and adaptability. Packer's leadership will be crucial as England look to maintain momentum in their pool stage matches.
Sources used: "Daily Mail", "Yorkshire Post", "BBC", "Morning Star" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
