Jade Shekells is set to make her first start for England as part of nine changes made by coach John Mitchell for the upcoming Women's Six Nations match against Scotland in Leicester. This strategic move comes as England aims to secure their seventh consecutive Six Nations title.

Key Changes and Player Insights

• Jade Shekells: The 28-year-old center, who debuted off the bench against Italy, brings powerful ball-carrying skills to the starting lineup.
• Marlie Packer: The former England captain returns to the starting lineup, bringing experience and leadership.
• Zoe Aldcroft: Continues as the only player to start every game this championship, now at blind-side flanker.
• Maddie Feaunati: Returns to start at number eight after a standout performance in the opening rounds.

Scotland's Challenge

Scotland, coming off a disappointing loss to Italy, faces a formidable England side. Their only victory this championship was a narrow win over Wales in round one.

Match Details

• Venue: Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium
• Date: Saturday, 19 April
• Kick-off: 16:45 BST
• Coverage: Watch live on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and online; listen on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds.

Line-up

England: Kildunne; Dow, Jones, Shekells, MacDonald; Aitchison, L Packer; Clifford, Atkin-Davies, Bern, Galligan, Ward, Aldcroft (capt), M Packer, Feaunati.

Replacements: Campbell, Botterman, Muir, Talling, Matthews, Hunt, Rowland, Scarratt.

Strategic Insights

Mitchell has also changed his half-backs, with Lucy Packer and Holly Aitchison coming in for Natasha Hunt and Zoe Harrison. This move aims to bolster the team's offensive capabilities.

Historical Context

England is on a 23-game winning streak and is chasing a fourth successive Grand Slam. A win for England and undefeated France on Saturday would set up a Grand Slam decider at Allianz Stadium on 26 April.

Player Quotes

• Marlie Packer: "Whether she is playing or not, has always been inputting information. She brings her experience, energy, and ferocity, but also a calmness to the squad."
• Emily Scarratt: "It is a special occasion and there are not too many more opportunities to do that. The crowd is close to the pitch and we know what a crowd in Leicester is like."

Conclusion

With strategic changes and a strong lineup, England is poised to continue their dominance in the Women's Six Nations. Scotland will need to bring their A-game to challenge the Red Roses.