England women’s coach Gary Street is hoping to build on his side’s feelgood factor by adding the Nations Cup to their burgeoning trophy cabinet.
Hot on the heels of completing a Grand Slam in the 2011 RBS 6 Nations – their sixth consecutive Championship title – the next generation of English players won the Under-20s Nations Cup with a 48-11 defeat of USA last week.
Now Street’s squad, which contains a mixture of old heads and young talent, are preparing for the senior Nations Cup which takes place in Ontario, Canada from August 2nd to 13th.
Jenny Brightmore and Michaela Staniford have recently been added as injury cover and Street warned his team they will need to maintain their recent high standards.
“This is an important opportunity to blood several new, young players who have got great potential,” said Street.
“This is also a real chance to have a look at new combinations and work on new strategies as we look to build on last season and raise the bar.
“This is going to be a tough tournament and I am expecting all three of our rivals to have upped their game since we last met. Canada have had a cracking 7s programme and a lot of their Sevens players are going to be involved in this tournament.
“It is always tough playing America who are a tough and physical side. South Africa are ever improving and they have a very talented head coach so I am sure they’ll be tough opposition.”
Meanwhile England Under-20s head coach Amanda Bennett hailed the performance of her side in continuing their unbeaten 2011.
He said: “This is a fantastic result not just for all the U20s players but for England Rugby.
“Since the squad came together in October we have made significant improvements in our game and these have culminated in a great team performance and winning the 2011 Nations Cup.
“We have beaten every team we have faced this year which is a wonderful achievement. The true test now for each of these players is not just to enjoy this moment but to build on this success and take their game to the next level.”
