England Women's Rugby Players Natasha Hunt and Morwenna Talling Injured for Six Nations

Two key England Women's rugby players are out of the Six Nations after getting injured on Saturday, April 12, 2026. This is a big blow to their title defence.
By Newsroom | Sports, Rugby |

Key Players Out Amidst Title Defence

Scrum-half Natasha Hunt and lock Morwenna Talling are out of the remaining matches in England's Women's Six Nations title defence. Both players sustained leg injuries during the team's 33-12 victory over Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday, April 12, 2026. Talling was carted off the field after 43 minutes, while Hunt, who came on as a replacement, lasted only 13 minutes before also being substituted due to injury.

England suffer double Women's Six Nations injury blow - 1

Squad Depth Tested

The unavailability of Hunt and Talling further depletes an already stretched England squad. The team's second-row depth has been particularly impacted, with Talling's absence creating a "dearth of experience" in that position. Nineteen-year-old Haineala Lutui, usually a back-row player, was brought on to make her England debut against Ireland, replacing the injured Talling. The RFU has confirmed that Sydney Gregson and uncapped Haidee Head have joined the squad in response to these injuries, preparing for the upcoming match against Scotland.

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England suffer double Women's Six Nations injury blow - 2

Previous Setbacks and Emerging Talent

This latest injury setback follows other absences for England's campaign. Prop Mackenzie Carson was ruled out of the tournament earlier in April due to an ankle injury sustained in a match against Wales on March 29, 2026. There was also prior concern over Hannah Botterman, whose return timeline remained uncertain as of April 9, 2026. The team's victory against Ireland, witnessed by a record crowd of 77,120 at the Allianz Stadium, marked a strong start to their title defence despite these compounding issues.

England suffer double Women's Six Nations injury blow - 3

Match Details

England secured a 33-12 win against Ireland. Zoe Harrison's long pass to Ellie Kildunne resulted in a score, highlighting moments of attacking fluidity. The team's upcoming fixture is against Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are Natasha Hunt and Morwenna Talling out of the Six Nations?
Both players got leg injuries during the match against Ireland on Saturday, April 12, 2026. They will miss the rest of the tournament.
Q: Who will replace the injured players in the England squad?
Sydney Gregson has joined the squad, and uncapped Haidee Head has also been called up. Haineala Lutui, a back-row player, made her debut against Ireland.
Q: How did England perform in their last match despite the injuries?
England beat Ireland 33-12 at Twickenham on April 12, 2026, in front of a record crowd of 77,120.
Q: What are England's next steps in the Six Nations?
The team will play Scotland next at Murrayfield on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
Q: Are there other recent injuries affecting the England team?
Yes, prop Mackenzie Carson was ruled out earlier in April with an ankle injury, and Hannah Botterman's return timeline was uncertain as of April 9, 2026.