The star-studded side will be captained by three-time Women’s World Cup champion, Linda Itunu, from the Black Ferns. Scotland Women 7s captain, Nelson, has been named as vice-captain for this fixture, alongside Steph Te Ohaere-Fox (New Zealand).

The coaching set up for the Barbarians Women’s side also features Scotland’s most capped international player, Donna Kennedy. Kennedy will be Assistant Coach to New Zealand’s Anna Richards for the USA match.

Kennedy made 115 international appearances before launching a coaching career that has included five years in charge of Worcester Valkyries.

Kennedy said on her coaching appointment, “I am delighted to be asked to coach the Barbarians side that will take on the USA on Friday 26 April. It is an honour to be part of a club that is steeped in history that dates back to 1890.

“We have quality players from nine different nations for our first international fixture. I am also delighted to be coaching alongside Anna Richards. I have had the pleasure of playing against Anna and playing on the same side for the Nomads on our 2008 tour to South Africa, so the set is complete now we’re coaching together!

“The USA is an exciting and athletic team which is gaining traction under the guidance of their new coach Rob Cain. We expect the game to be fast paced and full of exciting rugby from both sides.”

Photo caption:
Top: Helen Nelson training with the Barbarians
Bottom: The Barbarians coaching team with Donna Kennedy (second left).

Photo credit: Simon Mills

Just the 697 caps ? and multiple World Cup wins ? between them and huge smiles on their faces ?

Here's the @Barbarian_FC team taking on @USARugby ?? Women's Eagles in Denver tomorrow.

Led by @NZRugby @BlackFerns legend @LItunu ??? pic.twitter.com/IJ79hvcKiW

— Barbarian FC (@Barbarian_FC) April 25, 2019