Mitchell's selection calls 'very clear' - Feaunati
Women's Six Nations: Wales v EnglandVenue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff Date: Saturday, 29 March Kick-off: 16:45 GMTCoverage: Watch on BBC Two, iPlayer, BBC Sport website & app; listen on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra
Selection under England head coach John Mitchell is "clear" and competition for places "very healthy", says Red Roses back row Maddie Feaunati.A much-changed England started their Six Nations title defence with a bonus-point win over Italy in York, despite Mitchell making seven personnel changes from his side's last outing in October's WXV1 win over Canada.Prior to the Six Nations, Mitchell said he wants to develop "two teams" before the home Rugby World Cup begins in August."It is all about opportunity and depth," Feaunati, who started at number eight against Italy, told BBC Sport. "It is exciting to play with new people and try new combinations."They've been going well and we've got to work with people that we haven't in the past. As a player it always keeps us on our feet and excited for more."We are constantly pushing ourselves and I will never take it for granted that I am here or get comfortable."The competition is very healthy and very clear each week where we are standing. It is something to chase and also lean on."The 22-year-old Exeter Chief made her England debut against Italy in last year's championship and has since established herself as a regular under Mitchell.Feaunati, who has 11 caps, shifted from her usual role on the flank to number eight in York, with regular starter Alex Matthews suspended for the opening two rounds."I like the power game that number eight brings and I think that suits me well," she added."I've got great people in the squad like Alex Matthews that I can keep learning off. I really enjoyed being out there at eight."I have to pinch myself that this is what I am doing and I can never take it for granted. I just want to keep pushing for more."
England, chasing a fourth successive Grand Slam and seventh championship in a row, next face Wales at Principality Stadium on Saturday.More than 10,000 tickets have been sold for the game, as Sean Lynn's side look to bounce back from their narrow defeat by Scotland in front of what will be a record home attendance.Despite scoring 38 points against Italy, Mitchell's side only scored one second-half try through full-back Emma Sing. Wales may take some encouragement from that below-par second-half England performance as they look to improve on their 46-10 loss to the Red Roses last year.Feaunati added: "Although we didn't get many points in the second half [against Italy], we built opportunities and just didn't execute."We are used to playing at Allianz Stadium, it is exciting that the Wales women get to play at their stadium."We are focused on ourselves and our role. It is good they had a close game against Scotland right to the end. It is exciting what they have built."
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