England's preparations for the closing stages of the Guinness Women's Six Nations have been dealt a significant blow, with vice-captain Alex Matthews ruled out of the tournament's final two fixtures. The double World Cup-winning No.8 suffered shoulder damage during England's opening-round 33-12 victory over Ireland and will undergo surgery this week, sidelining her for Saturday's clash with Italy in Parma and the probable title-decider against France in Bordeaux on May 17.
Matthews joins a growing list of absentees in the Red Roses camp. Back-rowers Lilli Ives Campion and Sadia Kabeya are continuing their rehabilitation at the team base, aiming to be fit for the trip to France. Meanwhile, props Hannah Botterman and Morwenna Talling are also receiving treatment. Compounding the selection headache, several key players are unavailable due to pregnancy: Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, Lark Atkin-Davies, and Rosie Galligan.
Despite the mounting injuries, England have remained imperious, extending their record-breaking winning run to 36 matches after a commanding 62-24 victory over Wales in round three. Head coach John Mitchell has been forced to reshuffle his backline for the Italy encounter, with Ellie Kildunne returning to the left wing, Emma Sing restored at full-back, and Mia Venner earning her fourth cap on the right wing. Fly-half Zoe Harrison replaces Holly Aitchison in the starting XV.
Australian-born Haidee Head is poised to make her debut after being named among the replacements as back-row cover, while rookie Bristol duo Delaney Burns and Demelza Short continue to feature in the pack. Mitchell acknowledged the challenge posed by an increasingly confident Italian side, which defeated Scotland 41-14 in round three. "Italy will be full of confidence after their result against Scotland, and they'll challenge us in different ways," Mitchell said.
"For us, it's about staying locked in on our key actions—applying pressure and intentionally attacking the space with speed. Ultimately, it always comes down to showing courage in the moments that matter." England's lineup reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, with captain Marlie Packer anchoring the side from the back row alongside Sadia Kabeya's replacement, while Zoe Aldcroft and Abbie Ward's absence in the second row has opened the door for Delaney Burns to partner Abbie Burton.
England will be aiming to maintain their perfect record in pursuit of a seventh consecutive Six Nations title, but the depth of their squad will be tested against a France side that has also shown strong form. The match in Parma kicks off at 2:30 PM BST, with Sky Sports broadcasting live coverage. Based on reporting from SkySports | News.