Sadia Kabeya to start for England in Rugby World Cup opener against Fiji

England head coach Simon Middleton has named 20-year-old flanker Sadia Kabeya in the starting line up for the Rugby World Cup opener against Fiji to be played on Saturday.

Kabeya, who was tested positive for Covid-19 last week has recovered to claim her place in the absence of Marlie Packer, who is sidelined with a foot injury.

Sarah Hunter will be captaining the side and will be needing two more caps to level with record holder Rochelle Clark. Prop Shaunagh Brown will continue to spend time in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19 earlier in the week.

Saracens fly-half Zoe Harrison has been handed the number 10 jersey with vice captain Emily Scarratt starting at outside centre. The game will also see Abby Dow making a return from a broken leg that she sustained during the Six Nations as she is named on the bench along with Lucky Packer.

"We've selected an experienced matchday 23 who we feel are in a good position to get our campaign off to a strong start," said Middleton, who has guided England to a record 25 consecutive wins leading to the tournament.

"We know we could have selected any of the wider squad and there are nine players this week with a key supporting role.

"It's a privilege to come up against a team in their first-ever World Cup match. We know they have talented players and we're looking forward to the challenge. It's great to hear over 30,000 tickets have been sold for the opening day.

"I'm really pleased with the group effort in training and we can't wait to get started at an iconic venue in Eden Park on Saturday."

England line up: 15. Ellie Kildunne; 14. Lydia Thompson; 13. Emily Scarratt; 12. Helena Rowland; 11. Claudia MacDonald; 10. Zoe Harrison; 9. Leanne Infante; 8. Sarah Hunter (captain); 7. Sadia Kabeya; 6. Alex Matthews; 5. Abbie Ward; 4. Zoe Aldcroft; 3. Sarah Bern 2. Amy Cokayne; 1. Vickii Cornborough.

Reserves: 16. Connie Powell; 17. Hannah Botterman; 18. Maud Muir; 19. Cath O'Donnell; 20. Poppy Cleall; 21. Lucy Packer; 22. Holly Aitchison; 23. Abby Dow