England's women are preparing for the WXV Global Series with new size 4.5 balls and a demanding schedule. The Red Roses will face Australia, Canada and New Zealand at home before tests against Canada and the USA abroad.

Head coach John Mitchell revealed World Rugby's new smaller balls are now in use in the England camp. While controversial among players like Zoe Harrison, Mitchell believes coaching is key to success. He noted potential consequences including more contestable kicking.

Mitchell, a New Zealand-born UK citizen who recently took the citizenship test, emphasized the importance of developing young players like Flo Robinson as the team prepares for the 2029 World Cup in Australia. The WXV Global Series, featuring six England tests, is being treated as an audition for that tournament.