Double boost for England star Zoe Aldcroft

Aldcroft, who learned the game at Scarborough RUFC, made her first start for the full England under-20s side against their French counterparts last weekend, and she’s now planning a trip to play at Twickenham.

Aldcroft will walk out at the home of English rugby union after her University of Northumbria beat Exeter in their huge semi-final clash at Newcastle Falcons’ Kingston Park stadium.

The Scarborough-born player appeared for the full 80 minutes as Northumbria won the semi-final clash 30-5 to set up the dream date at Twickenham on Wednesday March 23, when they will tackle their Cardiff counterparts.

Aldcroft said: “It’ll be a very proud moment.

“We’ve been training hard all season to get there and I am incredibly excited.”

The dream trip to Twickenham comes on the back of Aldcroft making her first start for the England under-20s side against France last week.

Aldcroft starred as the England girls roared back to claim a last-gasp 25-25 draw.

England led the game 20-3 at half-time, but the French fired back after the break to take a lead until the hosts levelled late on.

That sets up their meeting with their rivals from across the Channel nicely.

Aldcroft will again start for the English when they travel to Chartres RFC on Saturday for their return fixture.

“I was very proud to play for my country. I’m starting at number eight again this weekend and I’m very excited,” added Aldcroft.

“Hopefully we will get the win this time, it was a great game first time around.”