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The WX Global Series readies for the second of three U.S. stops, heading to Nashville, Tenn., on Saturday, Oct. 24. USA Rugby Women’s National Team Head Coach Jack Hanratty has named the match-day roster for the rematch against Italy, which kicks off at 3:15 p.m. CT and followed by the USA Men vs. Australia XV at 5 p.m. Games available on Paramount+. [Lead photo c/o USA Rugby]
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“We set ourselves some objectives at the start of the year, to build a robust squad – and to build a squad, you’ve got to trust the squad,” Hanratty explained. “This week’s squad shows that depth with some new names starting. Lauren Carlton’s start is probably one the team is most excited for. She’s an incredible teammate and her work ethic at training has been unbelievable.”
Carlton joins the starting line at loosehead prop, and in terms of changes from last test match, Hann Humphreys is back at blindside flanker.
In the backline, Taina Tukuafu takes the reins at scrumhalf, and Alev Kelter steps back into the starting lineup on the wing.
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“We had our foot on the gas last week, and we didn’t really finish it,” Hanratty referenced the 36-27 win in Texas. “Italy are a quality side, and they came back in. So, looking at the players that will be finishing the job, I think we’re quite excited about our second act.”
Forwards Hope Rogers and Reece Woods join Paige Stathopoulos and co-captain Erica Jarrell-Searcy on the bench. After becoming the second-most capped Eagle last week with 52 caps, Kate Zackary looks to add one more to her name as she joins Abigail Paton, Kapoina Bailey and Katana Howard in the backline replacements.
The USA will then travel to New Jersey for their WXV Global Series finale in a 2025 Rugby World Cup-opener rematch against England’s Red Roses in Sports Illustrated Stadium on October 30. Buy Tickets
