England's Six Nations Title Hopes Hit by Injuries and Pregnancies

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England's Women's Six Nations campaign has been dealt a blow with prop Hannah Botterman ruled out of their opener against Ireland due to an ankle injury. The team is already contending with several injuries, two retirements, and four pregnancies, including that of Rosie Galligan.

England's hopes of winning the Women's Six Nations title have been hit by a series of setbacks, including injuries and pregnancies. Prop Hannah Botterman has been ruled out of their opener against Ireland with an ankle injury, and her participation in the tournament is uncertain.

The team is already dealing with several injuries, two retirements, and four pregnancies, including that of Rosie Galligan, whose partner is England teammate Marlie Packer. Coach John Mitchell said that Botterman's ankle is not yet mechanically sound, and they will have more information on her return timeline next week.

England remain favorites for the grand slam, but Mitchell acknowledged that the team has been affected by the post-World Cup euphoria. Ellie Kildunne will start at full-back, with Claudia Moloney-MacDonald and Jess Breach on the wings. New captain Meg Jones, who took over from pregnant Zoe Stratford, will start at outside centre.

Mitchell believes that the team has built a legacy and has the opportunity to create a dynasty. However, he also acknowledged that there will be challenges along the way, including a Lions tour in 2027 and the fact that several players are becoming mothers.