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.