Exeter hosting England's World Cup warm-up

The North Shields-born star skippered the Red Roses when they were beaten by the Black Ferns in the final five years ago, having also been a part of the side that were crowned champions in France three years earlier.

The latest instalment of rugby’s showpiece event arrives one year later than intended, so Hunter, who will be 37 when the tournament begins on October 8, has stewed over the prospect of turning the tables for a little longer than planned.

Before then, Hunter’s side will do battle with USA and Wales in Exeter and Bristol as their tournament preparations ramp up ahead of what she believes will be her toughest World Cup test to date.

“I do wonder if New Zealand hadn't been named as a host whether I would have had that motivation and drive to go out there,” said the 134-cap forward.

“We're under no illusions as to how tough it will be. We know that if we want to go over there and win it, we will have to be at our very best, which is an exciting challenge, but we wouldn't want it any other way.

“The level between each team is getting tighter and tighter and I think it's going to be the best and most competitive it has been.”

Achieving World Cup glory and winning in New Zealand are two of the ultimate tests in rugby, but Hunter has mastered both since her international debut in 2007.

She is hoping her past experiences can help her guide the world’s No.1-ranked side to more world domination.

“It's about the team itself, and about how we perform and not worrying about the opposition that you're going to play,” added Hunter.

England Rugby’s women’s team, the Red Roses, will be playing their final warm-up game against Wales at Ashton Gate, Bristol, on 14th September 2022 before travelling to New Zealand. Be part of the action and bag discounted Category 1 tickets with O2 Priority. For more information on O2’s partnership, visit https://www.englandrugby.com/about-rfu/rfu-partners/o2.