In last year’s tournament, they scored at least 40 points in every single game and conceded more than 10 points just once as they won on the road in Italy, Scotland and France and beat Wales and Ireland at home. England have not lost a home game in the Six Nations since 2015, winning 21 in a row on home soil.

England have reigned supreme in the Women's Six Nations for seven years. Victory over France on the final day of last year's tournament delivered a third consecutive Grand Slam and they will start the defence of their title as strong favourites to claim the clean sweep once again.

England coach John Mitchell has picked five uncapped players in his squad for their Six Nations opener against Italy in York on Sunday.