England to open Six Nations defence against Italy

England will begin their Women's Six Nations title defence against Italy at York Community Stadium on 23 March.

Ireland, who finished third at this year's Six Nations, open the competition at home against France on 22 March, while Scotland host Wales in Edinburgh.

In April, the Red Roses defeated France in Bordeaux to secure a sixth Six Nations title in a row and a third consecutive Grand Slam.

The pair could again meet in a potential Grand Slam decider on 26 April at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium in the final round - the same venue that will host the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup final.

"The opportunity to take women's rugby to new heights next year cannot be overstated," said Six Nations chief of rugby Julie Paterson.

"Having the spotlight on women's rugby in 2025 can benefit the entire game, its players and the fans."

John Mitchell's side face away trips to Wales and Ireland in rounds two and three before hosting Scotland at Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium in Leicester on 19 April.

Scotland face a difficult trip to La Rochelle to face France in round two, while Ireland travel to Italy after their opening game.

In the other final-round games, Scotland host Ireland with Wales travelling to Italy.

All kick-off times from March 30 BST.

Certain venues are still to be confirmed.

Round 1

22 March

Ireland v France (venue TBC, 13:00)

Scotland v Wales (Hive Stadium, Edinburgh, 16:45)

23 March

England v Italy (York Community Stadium, 15:00)

Round 2

29 March

France v Scotland (Marcel Deflandre, La Rochelle, 13:00)

Wales v England (venue TBC, 16:45)

30 March

Italy v Ireland (venue TBC, 15:00)

Round 3

12 April

France v Wales (venue TBC, 12:45)

Ireland v England (venue TBC, 16:45)

13 April

Scotland v Italy (Hive Stadium, Edinburgh, 15:00)

Round 4

19 April

Italy v France (venue TBC, 13:00)

England vs Scotland (Mattioli Woods Welford Road, 16:45)

20 April

Wales v Ireland (venue TBC, 15:00)

Round 5

26 April

Scotland v Ireland (Hive Stadium, Edinburgh, 12:15)

Italy v Wales (venue TBC, 14:30)

England v France (Allianz Stadium, 16:45)