DEFENDING champions England opened their Women's Six Nations campaign with an emphatic 52-10 win over Scotland in Doncaster.

Worcester's Lydia Thompson started on the wing as The Red Roses ran in eight tries at Castle Park, with sisters Poppy and Bryony Cleall both scoring in a dominant display.

In the 10th minute, Marlie Packer scored the first try of 2021 tournament, which has been revamped with the teams split over two pools.

Leanne Riley, Lark Davies, Bryony Cleall and winger Jess Breach, with a fine individual effort, all added further scores ahead of half-time as England secured a bonus point to lead 33-3.

Helena Rowland also went over before Scotland scored their first try of the championship through Hannah Smith in the 54th minute.

Scotland replacement Molly Wright was shown a red card just after the hour following a dangerous tackle and England took full advantage as number eight Poppy Cleall charged over before a late penalty try wrapped up the convincing victory.

Warriors' Caryl Thomas was in action for Wales in the other fixture but it wasn't a successful one for the Welsh as France proved too strong in a similarly convincing bonus-point win, 53-0.