Thompson set for 50th England cap at Sixways

Warriors legend Lydia Thompson will win her 50th cap for England Women when they take on USA at Sixways Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 2.45pm).

Thompson, 29, is one of three Warriors in action, with fellow compatriot Alex Matthews and USA second-row Alycia Washington also starting.

The one-club woman has enjoyed an illustrious career on the international stage, her stature in the game recognised by her induction into the Mastercard World Rugby Team of the Decade last year.

“It will be a really special moment when I walk out at Sixways for my 50th England cap,” said Thompson.

“I really want to soak up that moment, but it is also important to treat it as a normal game making sure that we go out there and execute our game plan.

“It is an incredible opportunity for all three of us – Alex and Alycia – to be representing our country at our home club stadium.”

Thompson has seen it all during her time at Sixways, from playing for the amateur side, to becoming a star in the Allianz Premier 15s.

“When I joined the amateur side, I had some fantastic coaches and stayed and went into the women’s section – they’ve become friends for life,” she added.

“Worcester Warriors is my family and the set-up which we’ve got at the moment, with Jo Yapp, Sian Moore as well as the conditioning and medical team with Ethan Kinney and Declan Iles running things – I owe so much to those guys.

“I feel very grateful for the opportunities that have come my way.”

England Head Coach Simon Middleton paid tribute to Thompson, adding: “Earning 50 caps is an amazing achievement and we’re made up for her and Rowena Burnfield, who also reaches that milestone.

“Lydia has been an important part of our team for a long time and it’s fitting for her to reach this milestone at the stadium and club she’s always called home.”

Sunday’s game has really caught the imagination of the region, with over 7,000 tickets sold for what promises to be a momentous occasion for the club.

Tickets are still available by clicking here.

Tickets cost just £15 for adults and £5 for juniors, with hospitality packages available for £48 for adults and £24 for juniors and can be bought by clicking here.

Please note that parking for Sunday is SOLD OUT for onsite and park and walk. Those with a ticket for the game should arrange travel beforehand and no-one will be able to turn up at Sixways without a pre-booked spot.

Park & Ride is still available with details below.

SWS – City Centre to Sixways
Departures from Stand F, Crowngate Bus Station at 12:45, 1:05, 1:30, 1:50 & 2:05. Also calls at Foregate Street Rail Station, Gheluvelt Park, St Stephens Church, Checketts Lane & Dilmore Lane, Fernhill Heath.
After the game, first bus leaves after the final whistle and on demand until the last bus at 7pm.

RPR – County Hall to Sixways
Departures from County Hall at frequent intervals between 1pm and 2:20pm
After the game, first bus leaves after the final whistle and on demand until the last bus at 7pm.

England

15. Abby Dow (Wasps, 21 caps)
14. Lydia Thompson (Worcester Warriors, 49 caps)
13. Holly Aitchison (Saracens, 3 caps)
12. Lagi Tuima (Harlequins, 11 caps)
11. Heather Cowell (Harlequins, 1 cap)
10. Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning, 9 caps)
9. Leanne Infante (VC; Bristol Bears, 47 caps)

1. Vickii Cornborough (Harlequins, 63 caps)
2. Lark Davies (Loughborough Lightning, 34 caps)
3. Maud Muir (Wasps, 3 caps)
4. Harriet Millar-Mills (Wasps, 65 caps)
5. Zoe Aldcroft (C; Gloucester-Hartpury, 27 caps)
6. Alex Matthews (Worcester Warriors, 44 caps)
7. Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning, 1 cap)
8. Sarah Beckett (Harlequins, 21 caps)

Replacements

16. Connie Powell (Gloucester-Hartpury, uncapped)
17. Hannah Botterman (Saracens, 25 caps)
18. Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 39 caps)
19. Rowena Burnfield (Wasps, 49 caps)
20. Sarah Hunter (Loughborough Lighting, 129 caps)
21. Lucy Packer (Harlequins, uncapped)
22. Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 33 caps)
23. Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 17 caps)

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