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Rugby World Cup final: The players who will decide England v Canada
By PA
Many of the greatest players in the women’s game will be in action when England take on Canada in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final.
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Here are five stars to watch at Allianz Stadium.
Hannah Botterman, England, prop
Before the World Cup Botterman set herself the target of becoming the best loosehead in the world and with one match left to play, she has already scaled that peak.
The 26-year-old was a colossus in the semi-final against France when she matched her powerful set-piece work with pleasing moments in attack and a destructive defensive shift that included three turnovers.
Megan Jones, England, outside centre
A stellar 2025 has propelled Jones on to the three-woman world player of the year shortlist and she is a strong 80 minutes away from winning the award.
The Cardiff-born 28-year-old is the complete centre, providing a cutting edge with the ball in hand and ferocity in defence.
On form, Jones is England’s best player.
Ellie Kildunne, England, full-back
The reigning world player of the year is also one of the game’s most exciting talents with her two tries in the semi-final against France just the latest examples of her athleticism, eye for space and rugby instincts.
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A deadly finisher who will provide the Red Roses’ greatest threat in attack.
Sophie de Goede, Canada, second row
As the daughter of Canada captains for early incarnations of the men’s and women’s World Cups, De Goede has Test rugby in her veins.
The goalkicking second row is also on the world player of the year shortlist and the stats paint a formidable picture with the 26-year-old completing more carries, offloads, line-out takes and conversions than any other player in the tournament.
A formidable operator.
Justine Pelletier, Canada, scrum-half
Canada’s attacking game has purred throughout the World Cup with Pelletier acting as its heartbeat.
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The 29-year-old is the catalyst for her team’s high-tempo game, using her energy, awareness and threat around the breakdown to keep opponents guessing.
Canada have produced the highest ruck speed in the tournament and in Pelletier they have they a half-back dynamo who is able to take full advantage.
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