England’s Zoe Harrison Takes Flyhalf Role in World Cup Semi-Final

England has named Zoe Harrison as the starting flyhalf for their Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final against France on March 30, 2024. Coach John Mitchell has made four key changes to the lineup following the team’s impressive 40-8 quarter-final victory over Scotland. The game will take place at Ashton Gate in Bristol, where England aims to continue their pursuit of a third World Cup title.

Harrison, who was previously on the bench, joins lock Abbie Ward in the starting XV, having earned her spot through solid performances. Fullback Ellie Kildunne and prop Hannah Botterman are also set to make their impact, having not played in the quarter-finals. The team is looking to maintain their strong momentum, having not lost a match in 31 games since their defeat to New Zealand in the 2022 World Cup final.

The starting lineup features a mix of experience and emerging talent. Alongside Harrison, the wingers will be Abby Dow, who recently scored her 50th international try, and Jess Breach. The centre partnership consists of Tatyana Heard and Megan Jones, with Natasha Hunt taking on the scrumhalf role. In the back row, Alex Matthews is positioned at number eight, alongside flankers Zoe Aldcroft and Sadia Kabeya. The locks will be filled by Morwenna Talling and Ward, with Amy Cokayne at hooker and Botterman and Maud Muir as props.

Mitchell expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, stating, “Ashton Gate set the stage for a strong performance in tough conditions last weekend, and the girls are eager to get back out there for the semi-final. We’ve earned this stage, and now we’ve got another chance to earn the right. By working together, we’ll keep getting better.”

The challenge against France is expected to be formidable, as Mitchell noted, “France have faced challenges, and that will drive them – we expect it. We don’t need to be perfect, just effective, focused, and ready for the fight. We’re excited and ready to hunt them.”

With a rich history in the tournament, England is keen to reclaim the World Cup title, a feat they last achieved in 2014 and 2017. The atmosphere at Ashton Gate is anticipated to be electric as the team aims to extend their winning streak and secure a place in the finals.

England’s squad for the semi-final is as follows:
– 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-Amy Cokayne
– 3-Maud Muir
– 4-Morwenna Talling
– 5-Abbie Ward
– 6-Zoe Aldcroft
– 7-Sadia Kabeya
– 8-Alex Matthews

Replacements include:
– 16-Lark Atkin-Davies
– 17-Kelsey Clifford
– 18-Sarah Bern
– 19-Rosie Galligan
– 20-Maddie Feaunati
– 21-Lucy Packer
– 22-Holly Aitchison
– 23-Helena Rowland

As the semi-final approaches, the focus will be on performance, teamwork, and the drive to overcome France, a formidable opponent in this prestigious tournament.