Abby Dow and England near record territory as Australia search for upset

"Nothing the Red Roses do is boring. Those are the words of the centre Tatyana Heard as England head into their final pool match of the Rugby World Cup with the aim of topping the pool and equalling their own world record of consecutive wins. If the heavy favourites come away with a victory against Australia, they will extend their winning streak to 30 games. Their previous 30-match run ended in the 2022 World Cup final loss, which is the last time they were defeated."

"I wouldn't say anything we do ever gets boring. There is so much competition within training, within matches, regardless of score lines we are always trying to perform at our best and put our best foot forward. There's also selection that comes into place, every single individual that pulls on a shirt they want to perform. I don't think that people think about the fact that something we do might be boring, we have the best job in the world. We are just trying to enjoy ourselves and trying to be the best we can be."

"She is one of the best finishers in the world, if not the best. She's incredible, if you give her the ball you know she is likely to finish it or at least make a lot metres."

England's Red Roses face Australia in their final pool match with the goal of topping the pool and equalling a world record for consecutive wins. A victory would prolong their unbeaten run to 30 matches, matching a previous streak that ended with the 2022 World Cup final loss, the squad's last defeat. The team emphasises fierce internal competition in training and selection, focusing on enjoyment and peak performance rather than dwelling on the winning run. Abby Dow sits one try short of 50 international tries. Australia field notable wings including Desiree Miller and Caitlyn Halse.

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