Richmond Ladies' World Cup winning hooker Emma Croker will start England’s autumn international Test against Ireland at the Stoop this afternoon.

Croker was among the replacements as England lost 11-0 to France last week.

Despite that result England Women head coach Scott Bemand reckons the squad is coming together nicely ahead of next year's Six Nations.

“The girls are excited to be running out on Saturday for the second weekend in a row against what will be a tough match against Ireland," he said. 

"In the last game we were able to create a number of opportunities against France, but unfortunately just a little bit of composure cost us. 

"But the fact that we’re creating those opportunities means the girls are growing in confidence.

“This is a group that have been together since the tour of Canada in the summer so we are building nicely.

"We are starting to see the quality coming through in the younger players coupled with the experience of the older ones which is great to see.

"It’s another great opportunity for them to perform in a Test match environment."

Richmond’s Vicki Cornborough and scrum half Leanne Riley must settle for a place on the bench in west London.

Richmond beat Bristol Ladies 31-22 in the trio’s absence last Saturday to remain top of the Women’s Premiership.