Packer to miss Red Roses’ tour of North America

England back-rower Marlie Packer will miss the upcoming WXV Global Series matches against Canada and the United States in North America. The 119-cap veteran will remain at home as her partner and Red Roses teammate, Rosie Galligan, is due to give birth. England's schedule features fixtures against Canada on October 17 in Toronto and October 24 in Ottawa, followed by a clash with the USA on October 30 in New Jersey.

Head coach John Mitchell selected a 32-player touring squad, while Delaney Burns, Haidee Head, and Sophie McQueen have been ruled out due to injury. The Red Roses head into the tour after an active September, which included wins over Australia and New Zealand alongside a 26-26 draw against Canada.