England Gear Up for WXV with Smaller Balls, Anthem Test & Tough Schedule

The World Rugby Championship’s new format has sparked a mix of excitement and skepticism among female players competing in the inaugural series this September. For England’s women, the challenge is multifaceted as they prepare to take on Australia, Canada, and New Zealand at home before embarking on a grueling schedule that includes matches against Canada and the USA across the Atlantic.

The introduction of smaller balls – specifically size 4.5s, about 3% smaller than regulation size fives but retaining the same weight – has been met with resistance from some players. England fly-half Zoe Harrison described it as “the worst decision someone has ever made.” World Rugby held a trial for these balls with top-tier Sevens players in November.

England’s head coach John Mitchell is taking a measured approach to the introduction of smaller balls, acknowledging potential consequences for kickers but emphasizing that coaching will be key to success. This pragmatic stance is especially necessary given the limited time available before the start of the WXV series. However, it remains to be seen whether the benefits – potentially increased contestable kicking and improved offloading – outweigh their drawbacks.

Mitchell’s experience with the new balls has been eventful. During a recent test, he was asked to sing the national anthem as part of his citizenship exam and happily obliged. This anecdote highlights Mitchell’s long-standing connection to England, which culminated in him becoming a UK citizen.

The team’s preparations for the WXV series have included awarding full-time contracts to players like Mia Venner and Flo Robinson. These signings signal a commitment to developing young talent and ensuring key positions are covered. Mitchell has identified Robinson as an important player in England’s plans, and it will be interesting to see how she fares against top teams.

The WXV series is being touted as an opportunity for teams to test their skills in a new environment with six games on the schedule, including three against Canada. Mitchell has likened the competition to an audition for the 2029 World Cup. This analogy takes on added significance given England’s grueling travel schedule, which includes matches in Manchester, Exeter, Twickenham, and across the Atlantic.

The success of the WXV series will depend on many factors, including teams’ ability to adapt to new balls and schedules. While concerns about the impact of these changes are valid, it is also essential to recognize the opportunities for growth and development. As Mitchell noted, coaching will be crucial to success – a mantra that will be tested in the coming weeks.

The WXV series offers a unique chance for teams to push themselves to new heights, both literally and figuratively. With England’s women preparing to face top teams, it will be fascinating to see how they respond to challenges ahead. Will they prove themselves worthy of their reputation as one of the top sides in the world? Only time – and effective coaching – will tell.

The stage is set for an exciting and unpredictable ride with many twists and turns along the way. As England’s women embark on this journey, it is clear that they will be forced to adapt, improvise, and innovate to emerge victorious. Will they rise to the challenge? Only history will reveal the answer.