CUMBRIANS Catherine O’Donnell and Abbie Scott will start for England’s women in their Six Nations clash with France tomorrow (12.45pm kick-off).

The Red Roses began their campaign with a 51-7 win over Ireland in Dublin last Friday and they go to Castle Park in Doncaster to take on the title holders. Maryport’s O’Donnell played in the opening game, while Scott, from Keswick, missed out through injury but has been cleared to return to action for their televised game.

England women’s head coach Simon Middleton said: “Vickii [Cornborough] and Abbie bring considerable experience to the forward pack while Poppy [Cleall] is a great addition, having played consistently well in the Tyrrells Premier 15s and for the National Academy side in the autumn.

“We have no misconception of the size of the challenge ahead of us against France on Sunday. We were pleased with our performance against Ireland but we now have to improve to get a winning outcome.

“Given their recent form and the fact France come into the tournament as champions, they rightly go into the game favourites. [But] we have confidence in this squad and have had an excellent preparation through the week. We are really looking forward to returning to Doncaster where we had fantastic support from the crowd in November.”

France opened their own Six Nations with a 52-3 win over Wales.