Marlie Packer pauses briefly to consider how tough England will find bouncing back from losing the World Cup final.
It is 19 weeks since their world record 30-game winning streak was ended by tournament hosts New Zealand in Auckland. A little over four months since the world’s No.1 side lost winger Lydia Thompson to an early red card when 14-0 ahead and lost 34-31.
Against Scotland in Newcastle tomorrow, in front of a sell-out crowd, they launch yet another Six Nations title defence. Captain Sarah Hunter is playing her last game before retirement, coach Simon Middleton has served notice that this is his final tournament.
