VALKYRIES captain Lark Davies has been named in England Women’s 35-player squad ahead of their Women’s Six Nations opener against Italy next month.
England Women gathered on Monday for their final week-long training camp at Bisham Abbey ahead of the Six Nations opening Test against Italy in Stadio Mirabello in Reggio Emilia on February 4.
Head coach Simon Middleton said: “This is an important camp in terms of preparation for our opening game. We are under no illusions around the challenge of playing Italy.
“They are a very skilled and unpredictable side in their style of play, with a strong pack and good set-piece.
“For the players this is their final opportunity to put their hand up for selection.
“Our goal is to win the Six Nations and to do that we will be picking our strongest squad of players available, so it’s essential that individuals perform at the top of their game in this camp.”
WORCESTER Valkyries put in a valiant effort at Sixways as they fell to a 29-5 defeat to Richmond Women in the Tyrrells Premier 15s on Saturday.
Coming up against the now seventh-placed Richmond, Valkyries produced a much-improved performance but failed to turn pressure into points.
Richmond capitalised on their opportunities as tries from Gaelle Mignot, Zoe Barber, Row Burnfield and Libby Povey (2) secured the win.
Brooke Clarke dotted down for Valkyries in what was an encouraging but ultimately frustrating outing for the home side.
Valkyries to Gloucester-Hartpury Women’s RFC on Saturday, February 3 (kick-off 2pm)
