England Women U20 team named for Wales clash

• Lichfield’s Vicky Fleetwood returns to the squad to start at hooker
• England U20s Programme Manager Tom Stokes expects physical test from Wales

Photo: Getty Images

England Women Under 20s will be looking to end their season on a high note with a second victory over Wales this season when they meet at Taffs Well RFC in Wales on Sunday, May 9 (2pm).

The Red Roses last faced their home nation rivals a month ago on home soil and triumphed 17-7 after an impressive second half display. This time around they’ll be looking to make an immediate impression to secure two international wins from three this season.

England’s young guns will be coached by Newbury Coach Ben Sturnham and Newcastle’s Mark Laycock for this encounter, with Programme Manager Tom Stokes over seeing proceedings.

The coaches have made just a handful of changes from the team that defeated Wales in April with Lichfield hooker Vicky Fleetwood starting. Hove’s Amy Wilson-Hardy and Worcester’s Sophie Watkiss are also promoted from the bench.

Bristol’s Marlie Packer also returns from injury but starts the game as a replacement while her club team mate Charlotte Male again captains the side. Welwyn’s Emily Scott, who scored a brace of tries last time out against Wales, also starts at fly half.

England U20s Programme Manager Tom Stokes said: "As we expected Wales were very physical and tested our defensive organisation throughout last time. This time we’re expecting much of the same. However it will be vital that we continue to be clinical in attack, be aggressive in the contact area and to take our chances by doing the simple things consistently well."