Writing this column isn't easy…one because I still don't think I've fully processed how I feel about Saturday and two, because I have a broken thumb so I have to write with one hand.
For more than 48,000 people, Saturday was magical. From Bugs Bunny hopping around the pitch, to Sophie Ellis-Bextor performing 'It's Murder on the Dancefloor' in a silver sequin dress, Twickenham is back to life!
Not to mention the tremendous display the Red Roses put in as they scored 14 tries against an improved Irish side with standout performances from Ellie Kildunne and Zoe Aldcroft.
My memory of the day is a little different as I was disqualified after the warm-up. I managed to dislocate and break my thumb during a tackle drill, and unfortunately, our team doctor couldn't make it stable enough to play. Hearing “We're taking you out of the game” was heartbreaking.
Not only was I devastated that I had worked so hard to wear that shirt, I felt extremely guilty that I had let my teammates down at the last minute and I felt so sorry for all my family and friends who had made the effort to come and watch me. .
I spent the first half of the game in the medical room getting x-rays and a cast. I am so grateful to my teammate Zoe Harrison who stayed with me the whole time as I went through moments of hysterical crying followed by bouts of gas and air induced laughter! We were able to go out at halftime to watch the show, and even though I was smiling and smiling, I felt empty.
The girls were incredible. We trained well all week – there was real positive energy coming through and we looked great on the pitch. They all clicked and the style of rugby was exciting to watch.
This week will be our biggest test… France's away game is never easy, but we are performing well under pressure. As a group, we love a challenge so I can imagine all the players are ready for it and want to finish the season on a high at Bordeaux. Winning is one thing, but winning a Grand Slam is an even better feeling.
Combinations
Women's Six Nations
France for women
England Women
France has some different threats to their game. They like to play fast rugby using quick tap options when they can as well as utilizing their quick backline to get to the edge. I think England have a real chance to make their mark as the best team in this tournament from set-pieces, disrupting momentum and controlling it.
As for me, I'll be rooting for the girls from home with a newly connected thumb! I will do anything to be out there playing but I know the girls will get the job done and take home the trophy!
Don't miss 'Super Saturday' this weekend, where three amazing matches will take place throughout the day. The big match, the deciding match in the Grand Slam, kicks off at 16:45 GMT. Coverage starts at 16:20 on BBC One – make sure you tune in to watch and hopefully see England win another major tournament!
