England women's rugby head coach John Mitchell has benched star full-back Ellie Kildunne for the match against the USA, ending her run of 29 starts at full-back in 33 appearances since the start of 2024. The decision follows England's first loss in four years, a defeat to Canada in Toronto that snapped a 41-Test unbeaten streak.
Mitchell's explanation
Mitchell acknowledged Kildunne's value but emphasized the need for consistency. "She's just going through a difficult period at the moment, and it's important for us to help her through that," he said. "She wants to become consistent as well, and she'll get back. It's also important to create competition and to recognise that you have to become more consistent, especially when you're competing in the Red Roses."
Statistical decline
Kildunne, 27, has seen her impact metrics dip over the past three seasons. She averaged beating six defenders per game in 2024 but only 4.2 in 2026, and has conceded more penalties this year. Against Canada in Exeter she made 17 carries for 47 metres (2.8m average), well below her usual standard, and in Toronto she turned over the ball twice, matching her joint-highest for an England game.
Emma Sing steps in
Emma Sing, a three-time Premier Women's Rugby champion with Gloucester-Hartpury, has been given the starting full-back role. Mitchell highlighted the stylistic differences: "They play quite differently. So we're very fortunate to have two very good full-backs. Emma's been sitting in the wings in this particular phase of our campaign. She was intermittent through injury for a long period of time. So she's in a really good physical place, and she's worked really, really hard. So I think it's time to give her an opportunity."
Future outlook
Kildunne remains one of the world's most dangerous gainline runners and retains huge popularity with 239,000 Instagram followers and a personal Barbie doll. After England's win over New Zealand in September she spent an hour signing autographs. Mitchell and observers expect her to fight back, possibly shifting to the wing initially, with a "Kildunne 2.0" version anticipated.
