Scarratt keen to play part in England's 'big year'

Emily Scarratt applauds — Emily Scarratt will win her 117th England cap against Italy on Sunday [Getty Images]

Women's Six Nations: England v Italy

Venue: LNER Community Stadium, York Date: Sunday, 23 March Kick-off: 15:00 GMT

Coverage: Watch on BBC Two, iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app; listen on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra

Experienced centre Emily Scarratt wants to play her part in a "big year ahead" for England, with a home Rugby World Cup to come during August and September.

The 35-year-old has appeared in each of the past four World Cups for the Red Roses, starring in the final when England beat Canada to win the competition in 2014.

England's preparation for this year's tournament continues with the Women's Six Nations. Coach John Mitchell's side begin their bid for a seventh consecutive title against Italy in York on Sunday, with Scarratt starting at outside centre.

When asked about her hopes for World Cup selection, Loughborough Lightning's Scarratt told BBC Sport: "I'm going to try my best. We've got so many good players throughout the squad and ultimately Mitch will make whatever decision he thinks is best.

"Hopefully I'm still showing I've got something there to offer; whether it's a starting shirt, being on the bench or being part of the squad.

"I'm definitely keen on being a part of that big year ahead."

Scarratt will win her 117th cap against Italy - her tally of appearances greater than any other member of England's 37-woman squad for the Six Nations.

She was out of action for 13 months before returning in February 2024 following neck surgery, and came off the bench in both England's Six Nations Grand Slam decider against France and the win over Canada in October which secured a second consecutive WXV1 title.

Mitchell said before last year's Six Nations that he was considering using Scarratt at inside centre and she wore 12 in last year's corresponding fixture against Italy in Parma.

In an England line-up which contains two players making their first international starts and two uncapped players among the replacements, Scarratt will begin at 13 on Sunday.

"That [whether she plays inside or outside centre] is probably more of a conversation for Mitch. Certainly in this Six Nations, it's definitely a focus on 13," Scarratt said.

"Jade Shekells has come in to fill a bit of that 12 gap behind Tatyana [Heard], and Holly [Aitchison] is playing there this weekend.

"There are times where I will fit into that, whether it's in training or in games. We're blessed with a few people that can float into different positions.

"Playing 13, trying to compete for a shirt with Megan Jones is tough at the moment, so if there's another opportunity to potentially play, I'll definitely take it. But at the moment, the focus is definitely on 13."

Asked if she feels more comfortable playing at outside centre, she added: "I think so, just looking at the numbers and the amount of times I've played there compared to everywhere else.

"I was getting into a little groove at 12 and I don't mind it. The way England play and bits at Loughborough where it's a bit more interchangeable, they kind of blend into one a little bit.

"I do prefer perhaps being one out, especially defensively - I think there are more problems to be solved out a channel wider. But I just would want to be on the field, to be honest."

Topics

US rugby hopes Ilona Maher will be part of England and Fiji DC doubleheader

Washington date confirmed for Steve Borthwick’s men while women’s World Cup preparations bring Fiji to town . Steve Borthwick’s England team will play in Washington DC in July, World Rugby and USA ...
The Guardian - 4d
England and Bristol Bears centre Reed retires

Bristol Bears centre Amber Reed, who was part of England's World Cup-winning squad in 2014, retires at the age of 33.
Yahoo Sports - 3d
Women’s Six Nations 2025: Fixtures, how to watch and England’s venues

The Guinness Six Nations signals the start of the pivotal year for the women’s game before England host the Rugby World Cup 2025 in the summer.
Yahoo Sports - 2d
Tuchel reveals Arsenal defender keen to end England exile

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Ben White wants to return to the England set-up under the new manager.White has not featured for England since flying home from the 2022 World Cup, amid reports the ...
Yahoo Sports - Mar. 14
'I've still got big part to play' - historic night for Sterling

Raheem Sterling believes he has "still got a big part to play" in Arsenal's chase for silverware this season after helping the club into the last eight of the Champions League where they will face ...
BBC News - Mar. 13
Osaka wants to 'play with the big dogs' after Miami win

Former world number one Naomi Osaka wants to "play with the big dogs" after beating Yuliia Starodubtseva 3-6 6-4 6-3 in the Miami Open.
BBC News - 3d
What to watch for in March internationals: Tuchel's England debut, Ronaldo goals, Poch's first big U.S. test

It's the first internationals of the year! There's lots happening as World Cup qualifying ramps up and European teams face off in the Nations League.
ESPN - 1d
Thomas Tuchel defends ‘Dad’s Army’ England squad after shock Jordan Henderson recall

New England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his shock selection of Jordan Henderson and claimed the 34-year-old has a chance of making his World Cup squad. Henderson last played for England in ...
Yahoo Sports - Mar. 14
Knight leaves role as England women's cricket captain after 9 years following poor results

Heather Knight is stepping down as captain of the England women's cricket team after nine years as part of an overhaul following poor results. England was eliminated in the group stage of last ...
Yahoo Sports - 2h