England Bolsters Squad with Kildunne and Botterman for Crucial Women's Rugby World Cup Semifinal

England strengthens their lineup with the return of Ellie Kildunne and Hannah Botterman for the Women's Rugby World Cup semifinal against France.

England's Women's Rugby World Cup campaign receives a significant boost as Ellie Kildunne and Hannah Botterman are set to return from injury for the semifinal clash against France this Saturday in Bristol. Both players were sidelined during the final pool match against Australia due to injuries.

Key Returns:

  • Ellie Kildunne, the dynamic fullback, was concussed in the match against Australia, leading to a mandatory 12-day recovery period.
  • Hannah Botterman, the robust prop, suffered a back spasm but has since recovered sufficiently to rejoin the squad.

Additional Squad Updates: Fly-half Zoe Harrison and lock Abbie Ward, who made impactful appearances off the bench in the quarterfinal victory over Scotland, are also returning to the starting lineup.

Coach's Insight: Coach John Mitchell expressed confidence in the team's preparation and strategy: "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 semifinal. We've earned this stage, and now we've got another chance to earn the right. Our game is working and is the right way; by working together we'll keep getting better."

Anticipated Challenge: Mitchell acknowledged the resilience of the French team: "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."

This semifinal promises to be a thrilling encounter as England aims to leverage their reinforced squad to secure a spot in the Women's Rugby World Cup final.

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