Roses skipper Aldcroft back for Scotland clash

Z OE Aldcroft has returned from injury to lead England in their Women's World Cup quarterfinal against Scotland tomorrow - with Holly Aitchison given the flyhalf duties at Ashton Gate.

- DUNCAN BECH

Aldcroft missed the resounding group successes against Samoa and Australia because of a knee knock incurred in the tournament opener against the United States.

The 28-year-old's fitness has been carefully managed since and she has now been restored to the back row, resulting in Abbie Ward dropping to the bench to make room.

Aitchison makes her first start of the competition after a successful comeback from an ankle injury as a replacement against Australia last Saturday, with Zoe Harrison covering from the bench. World player of the year Ellie Kildunne is observing a 12-day stand down period because of concussion symptoms arising from the final Pool A outing, so Helena Rowland starts at fullback, edging Emma Sing, who is also on the bench, for the position.

The last of four changes made to the side that triumphed 47-7 in Brighton sees Kelsey Clifford come in at loosehead prop for Hannah Botterman, who is struggling with a back spasm.

Head coach John Mitchell insists England are ready for the knockout phase of a World Cup they are strong favourites to win.