The team's recent performance ended their remarkable 39-Test winning streak, setting the stage for a formidable clash with the Black Ferns. Over 50,000 fans are expected to fill the stands, witnessing firsthand whether the Red Roses can reignite their former glory.
Mitchell has retained the same backline from their previous match against Canada, showing confidence in his players despite the draw. Starting players include Ellie Kildunne at full-back, wings Jess Breach and Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, centres Captain Meg Jones and Helena Rowland, and half-backs Zoe Harrison with Lucy Packer handling the scrum-half duties.
In the forwards, changes were necessary. Maddie Feaunati steps in at number eight, joining flankers Sadia Kabeya and Alex Matthews. The lock positions are held by Lilli Ives Campion and Morwenna Talling, while the front row sees Sarah Bern and Mackenzie Carson joining Bryony Field.
The bench includes May Campbell, Hannah Botterman, Maud Muir, Abi Burton, Marlie Packer, Natasha Hunt, Tatyana Heard, and Emma Sing, providing depth and cover for the starting lineup.
"Test matches against the best teams in the world are what we relish and look forward to, especially at Allianz Stadium."
Mitchell further commented on his team's preparation and strategy moving forward. "We’re moving forward in the right direction whilst building depth in our cover. Now we look forward to renewing a rivalry with a New Zealand side we haven’t played since 2024. They are playing good rugby at the moment and it’s no surprise to see them raise their standards."
The full lineup for the Red Roses is as follows:
- 15 Ellie Kildunne
- 14 Jess Breach
- 13 Megan Jones (c)
- 12 Helena Rowland
- 11 Claudia Moloney-MacDonald
- 10 Zoe Harrison
- 9 Lucy Packer
- 8 Maddie Feaunati
- 7 Sadia Kabeya
- 6 Alex Matthews
- 5 Lilli Ives Campion
- 4 Morwenna Talling
- 3 Sarah Bern
- 2 Bryony Field
- 1 Mackenzie Carson
Replacements:
- 16 May Campbell
- 17 Hannah Botterman
- 18 Maud Muir
- 19 Abi Burton
- 20 Marlie Packer
- 21 Natasha Hunt
- 22 Tatyana Heard
- 23 Emma Sing
The eagerly anticipated match is set to kick off at 15:00 BST at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, under the watchful eyes of referee Clara Munarini, assistant referees Ben Connor and Beatrice Smussi, with Quinton Immelman handling TMO duties.
Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live on the England Rugby YouTube channel, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app, ensuring no one misses out on what promises to be a highly competitive and engaging test match.
