England's most-capped active player Marlie Packer will miss the WXV Global Series matches against Canada and the USA in North America later this month. Two-time World Cup winner Packer, who has made 119 appearances for her country, will remain at home with partner and Red Roses team-mate Rosie Galligan due to give birth. England play Canada in Toronto and Ottawa on October 17 and 24 respectively before a game versus USA in New Jersey on October 30.
Delaney Burns, Haidee Head and Sophie Mc Queen are ruled out through injury. The Red Roses played three times in September, beating Australia and New Zealand around a 26-26 draw with Canada in Exeter that ended the hosts' 39-match winning streak. Head coach John Mitchell said: Our last two Tests against Canada and New Zealand have been humdingers that could have gone either way.
They were hugely important to our development towards [the 2029 World Cup]. Playing quality opposition and learning to adapt under pressure will help us raise our level and improve our game. The 32 players travelling to North America have a great opportunity to elevate our connections as a squad because playing away from home requires togetherness.
We have shown a real hunger to compete and improve, and we're excited to rip into our preparations and continue our rivalry with Canada in Toronto.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing