Maryport rugby union international Catherine O’Donnell has been named in the match day squad for today’s England Women’s opening Six Nations clash against Ireland.

Head coach Simon Middleton has selected his squad ready to get their campaign under way today at Energia Park, Donnybrook, KO 5pm, live on Sky Sports Mix.

Middleton said: “We are looking forward to getting our Six Nations campaign under way and implementing some of the things we have been working on since the Quilter Internationals.

“It is great to have a number of players back in the squad from the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup, as well those newer names who have impressed through the season so far.

“This first game has come a week too soon for a couple of players but this gives us an opportunity to test others, and there were some tough calls over positions. Selection has been based on recent form.

“We know that conditions are likely to be testing in Dublin on Friday but we are looking forward to returning to Donnybrook, a ground we know well, having lifted the Six Nations Grand Slam there in 2017.

“Whatever the conditions, we will be focussed on the task in hand.”

West Cumbria’s other international Abbie Scott of Keswick is being rested for this game after picking up a minor injury for her club. But they are hoping that she will be back and ready for the France game the following weekend.

Harlequins Ladies player Scott, and O’Donnell, of Loughborough Lightning, were both named in the Elite Player Squad (EPS) for the 2019 season earlier this year.

England and Ireland last came together at Twickenham Stadium in the 2018 Quilter Internationals, with the Red Roses winning 37-15.