England's head coach, John Mitchell, has made a strategic addition to the Women's Six Nations squad by including GB Sevens' standout player, Jade Shekells, for the opening game against Italy on Sunday. Shekells, who showcased her skills in the Vancouver leg of the World Sevens Series in February, is poised to make her debut in the XVs code, bringing a fresh dynamic to the team.

Shekells is among four potential debutants, including Ealing's Abi Burton, Leicester's Charlotte Fray, and Exeter's Flo Robinson. The squad, led by new captain Zoe Aldcroft, who recently clinched the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) title with Gloucester-Hartpury, is a blend of experience and emerging talent.

Despite the absence of key players like Harlequins' Connie Powell and Bristol's Millie David, the squad remains robust. Attention is particularly on wing Mia Venner, who has had a stellar season, culminating in a standout performance in the PWR final. Her inclusion sets the stage for an intense selection battle in the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup in August.

The squad also sees the return of Claudia MacDonald and Jess Breach, adding depth and experience. Saracens' May Campbell, despite her team's loss in the PWR final, has had a remarkable season, showcasing versatility across positions.

England Women's Six Nations Squad:

Forwards: Zoe Aldcroft (capt) (Gloucester-Hartpury), Lark Atkin-Davies (Bristol Bears), Sarah Beckett (Gloucester-Hartpury), Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears), Hannah Botterman (Bristol Bears), Georgia Brock (Gloucester-Hartpury), Abi Burton (Trailfinders Women), May Campbell (Saracens), Mackenzie Carson (Gloucester-Hartpury), Kelsey Clifford (Saracens), Amy Cokayne (Leicester Tigers), Maddie Feaunati (Exeter Chiefs), Charlotte Fray (Leicester Tigers), Rosie Galligan (Saracens), Lilli Ives Campion (Loughborough Lightning), Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning), Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury), Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury), Marlie Packer (Saracens), Morwenna Talling (Sale Sharks), Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears).

Backs: Holly Aitchison (Bristol Bears), Jess Breach (Saracens), Abby Dow (Trailfinders Women), Zoe Harrison (Saracens), Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury), Natasha Hunt (Gloucester-Hartpury), Megan Jones (Leicester Tigers), Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins), Claudia MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs), Lucy Packer (Harlequins), Flo Robinson (Exeter Chiefs), Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning), Emily Scarratt (Loughborough Lightning), Jade Shekells (Gloucester-Hartpury), Emma Sing (Gloucester-Hartpury), Mia Venner (Gloucester-Hartpury).

This diverse and talented squad is set to defend their title and continue their dominance in the Women's Six Nations. The inclusion of new talent like Shekells and the strategic leadership of Aldcroft are key components in their pursuit of a seventh consecutive title.