Matthews set to earn 50th cap
Alex Matthews is set to win her 50th cap against France on Saturday.
Simon Middleton has named Alex Matthews in his starting lineup to take on France in England’s Grand Slam decider in Bayonne this Saturday.
The World Cup winner earned her first Red Roses cap in 2011 aged just 17, and now 11 years on from her debut will notch up her 50th.
Her diverse skillset has seen her succeed not only in the 15s format, but on the sevens stage as well, competing for her country between 2014 and 2017, and earning her way into the Team GB training squad for the 2016 Olympic games. Revered by her peers and coaches, her talent and consistent form has seen her become a mainstay in Middleton’s back row.
“What a player. You can’t leave her out of the side,” said Middleton. “When you consider the quality of the back rowers we’ve got, that’s quite a tag to get yourself. She’s the ultimate athlete and rugby player.
“She glides across the pitch, she’s an incredible physical specimen with great skills. I think to do what she’s done in the sevens programme and come over here to do the same is incredible, and she just takes it all in her stride.
“She’s got great character, very composed, doesn’t take everything too seriously and it’s a great milestone for her. To have two careers that she’s performed that well in speaks volumes of her.”
Emily Scarratt has been named captain for the Grand Slam decider against France at the weekend after reaching her own landmark milestone of 100 caps last week against Ireland. The centurion was full of praise for her teammate Matthews and, having recently celebrated her own accomplishment, recognises what a special occasion Saturday will be for the 28-year-old.
“It will be great to see Alex go out first,” added Scarratt. “She has thoroughly deserved that opportunity to lead the side out. Any opportunity you get to lead out your national side is a very proud one.”
