Head coach John coach John Mitchell rotates his England lineup for the upcoming Test in New Jersey, while Kildunne settles for the bench.
England head coach John Mitchell has named his matchday squad for the upcoming Test fixture against the USA in New Jersey. Despite making six changes to the starting lineup, star full-back Ellie Kildunne has once again been named among the replacements, according to information published by BBC.
The decision comes after Kildunne was previously dropped for the recent 31-22 defeat against Canada in Ottawa. Mitchell previously stated that the 27-year-old Bristol Bears player needed to show greater consistency to reclaim her starting spot, leaving Emma Sing to retain the full-back jersey for Friday's match.
The Red Roses are looking to start this next phase strongly with only six months remaining until their next Test in the Women's Six Nations. Mitchell explained that the team is rotating positions to refresh the group, create opportunities, and continue building depth ahead of future international competitions.
Tactical Changes Across The Red Roses Backs
Four of the six changes made by Mitchell are concentrated in the backline. Players including Tatyana Heard, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, Flo Robinson, and Holly Aitchison have been handed their very first starts of the current international tour.
Aitchison and Robinson will form the half-back partnership, while Heard and Moloney-MacDonald step into the starting back formation. These strategic adjustments aim to inject fresh energy into the England attack following the disappointing result in Ottawa last weekend.
Fresh Power Introduced In The Forward Pack
In addition to the changes in the backs, the forward pack sees notable personnel alterations. Mackenzie Carson and Maud Muir have been brought into the starting XV to replace Hannah Botterman and Sarah Bern in the front row.
Mitchell emphasized that selection is strictly driven by what the team needs against the USA, the specific behaviours valued by the coaching staff, and the overall performance standard required. Every player remains fully accountable for maintaining these high standards.
Ellie Kildunne Context And World Rugby Accolades
Despite her current bench role, Kildunne remains a vital figure for the Red Roses squad. With 67 England caps to her name, she earned recognition as World Rugby's player of the year in 2024 and played a starring role in the team's successful 2025 World Cup campaign.
The experienced full-back will be ready to make an impact from the replacements bench alongside teammates like Helen Field, Hannah Botterman, Sarah Bern, Abbie Ward, Maddie Feaunati, and other impact players during Friday's fixture in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Ellie Kildunne on the bench for England against the USA?
Head coach John Mitchell stated that Ellie Kildunne needed to show greater consistency after being dropped for the defeat against Canada, with Emma Sing retaining the starting full-back spot.
How many changes did John Mitchell make to the England team?
John Mitchell made six changes to his side for the Friday fixture against the USA, including four adjustments in the backline and two in the forward pack.
When and where is the England versus USA rugby fixture taking place?
The Test match between the Red Roses and the USA takes place on Friday in New Jersey, serving as part of the team preparation six months ahead of the Women's Six Nations.
Who are some of the new players starting for the Red Roses?
Tatyana Heard, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, Flo Robinson, and Holly Aitchison have been handed their first starts of the tour in the backs, alongside forwards Mackenzie Carson and Maud Muir.
