England Duo Set for Debut Caps in Showdown Against USA.

Rugby General

England Duo Set for Debut Caps in Showdown Against USA.

Phoebe Murray and Bo Westcombe-Evans will make their England debuts in a revamped backline for the WXV opener against the United States on Sunday.

Murray will team up with Emily Scarratt in midfield, while Loughborough Lightning’s Bo Westcombe-Evans steps in for Abby Dow on the wing for her Test debut.

Flanker Georgia Brock earns her first start for England after coming off the bench in a 24-12 win against New Zealand earlier this month. 

Alex Matthews will captain England for the first time, making her 70th appearance at number eight. 

Second row Rosie Galligan returns to the squad after injuries sidelined her since the Six Nations.

On being named captain, Matthews said she was "very proud but also shocked," adding that coach John Mitchell expects hard work. Marlie Packer was the first to offer her congratulations and support.