There are three distinct tiers within women’s rugby at the elite level. The largest cluster consists of teams composed of amateurs and semi-professionals battling for survival and recognition. There is a much smaller pool that includes New Zealand, France and, most recently, Wales, who have a smattering of full-time rugby players in their ranks with many relying on short-term retainers.
Away in the distance, all on their own, are England. Their coach, Simon Middleton, can select from 29 players who have no other professional obligation than winning rugby matches. They have won their last 19 in a row, an unprecedented streak that is in little danger of ending this Sunday against Italy in Parma. Underlining the riches at his disposal, Middleton has made 11 changes to the XV that swept Scotland 57-5 in Edinburgh last weekend without sacrificing on the quality of his team.
