England Women head coach Simon Midldeton has come under fire after he chose to replace his sides captain at half-time of the World Cup final.
Inspirational leader Sarah Hunter was withdrawn at the break, leaving both fans and former players baffled.
England's World Cup-winning flanker Lewis Moody wrote: "Baffled why @EnglandRugby have taken their captain off at half time. I hope it’s not a costly decision,"
One fan wrote: "In craziest decisions in rugby history, taking Sarah Hunter off at half time of a final is right uo there. Would be like taking Dallaglio off in a final."
"Wrong decision to take Sarah Hunter off, could be decisive," commented another.
After the game, Hunter gave an amazing interview full of passion.
Sarah Hunter interview:
"The class from the words of your captain Sarah Hunter was and is inspiring," wrote one fan.
A second commented: "What amazing women! Thank you for being so brilliant! Inspiring not only women and girls in England but everywhere,"
"Sarah Hunter, what a captain. Brilliant words so soon after the final whistle. A brilliant ambassador for the sport."
Off-pitch lives and loves of England's Red Roses after Rugby World Cup defeat
England's Red Roses have captured the hearts of the nation after reaching the Rugby World Cup final in New Zealand.
We take a look at the loved ones who will help the players to recover following the cruel defeat.
#1. Sarah Hunter's boyfriend Nathan Smith
She has more than 120 caps for England and played in the victorious World Cup squad in 2014.
She is currently captaining England women in New Zealand. Hunter lives with her boyfriend, Nathan Smith, near Loughborough He is a coach at Doncaster Knights rugby club.
#2. Jess Breach's boyfriend Archie White
Her partner is Archie White, who plays flanker for the Harlequins men’s side.
#3. Holly Aitchison and Hannah Botterman
The Saracens and England teammates are currently dating.
The pair first met at Hartpury College in 2015 but split after a year as Holly struggled to come to terms with her sexuality.
They have now revealed how they were brought back together by 'fate' when they were both signed to the Saracens and Simon Middleton's Red Roses squad.
#4. Ellie Kildunne's boyfriend Cameron
Kildunne regularly posts on social media with her long-time partner Cameron.
#5. Marlie Packer's partner Natasha
Away from the pitch, the England back-row is happily settled with her partner Natasha, who gave birth to their son Oliver in 2020.
#6. Abbie Ward's husband Dave Ward
She married former Harlequins hooker Dave Ward in August 2020 and he is now her coach at Bristol Bears. The pair admit to having practised lineout throwing at home together.
