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Marlie Packer: England Ready for New Zealand Test

Sky Sports Champions League •
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England Red Roses back-row Marlie Packer spoke exclusively to Sky Sports after their 39-Test winning run ended with a 26-26 draw against Canada in Exeter. Eight days before the anniversary of England's 33-13 World Cup final triumph at Twickenham, the sides treated a sold-out Sandy Park to an eight-try thriller that ended in a draw.

Packer, the 2023 World Player of the Year, said New Zealand can expect a backlash at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday. "It's not what we wanted, but it wasn't a loss. It's a learning curve," she said. "It sharpens the mind, but also shows we are human. Canada brought it to us. It was a great game."

"Most definitely no better way to respond than beating New Zealand. Playing at the home of English rugby, every player wants to play there. New Zealand can expect a very strong Red Roses team coming at them."

Packer also confirmed she will step away from rugby when her second child arrives, with fiancée and teammate Rosie Galligan due at the end of next month.