England Red Roses prepare for WXV using new smaller rugby balls

England's women's rugby team, the Red Roses, are currently in pre-season training in Nottingham, gearing up for the WXV Global Series set to begin in September. They will face Australia, Canada, and New Zealand on home soil before further matches against Canada and the USA in October. Under head coach John Mitchell, the team has begun training with the newly introduced size 4.5 balls, which are slightly smaller than the traditional size five. While the change has drawn criticism, including from player Zoe Harrison, Mitchell emphasizes that effective coaching will be crucial in adapting to the new equipment. Initial conclusions on the ball's impact are expected after the first three home Tests in the upcoming series.

• 12:34 PMYahoo Sports — England gearing up for WXV with new smaller balls
• 12:34 PMBBC Sport — England gearing up for WXV with new smaller balls