Red Roses start WXV1 title defence against USA

Less than a year away from a home World Cup, England's women will start the defence of their WXV1 title against the USA in Vancouver at 8.30pm (BST) on Sunday 29th September.

The Red Roses, who won the inaugural WXV1 trophy in 2023, will also face New Zealand in their second fixture before facing hosts Canada in their final pool match.

Ireland make their debut in WXV1 against the reigning world champions New Zealand.

The WXV competition is entering its second year and provides consistent annual fixtures for 18 test sides outside of World Cup years.

In 2024, WXV1 is hosted by Canada in Vancouver, WXV2 is hosted by South Africa in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, while WXV3 is hosted by Dubai.

Canada will be riding high coming into the competition as hosts and having recently won the Pacific Four Series title.

Scotland are also on a title defence after winning WXV2 in 2023.

This year they open against their Six Nations rivals Italy, having pipped them to the trophy last year, followed by games against Japan and Australia.

Wales qualified for WXV2 after beating Spain in a play-off in June.

After opening against Australia, they will face Italy before concluding the tournament against Japan.