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Natasha Hunt and Ella Wyrwas have been awarded England women's contracts before next year's Six Nations.

The duo bolster options at scrum-half, with Harlequins' Lucy Packer previously the only specialist nine named.

Gloucester-Hartpury's Hunt, 34, was not selected for the last World Cup, but impressed the Red Roses coaching staff as they lifted the inaugural WXV trophy in New Zealand earlier this month.

The 2024 Women's Six Nations begins on 23 March.

England, who beat France to seal the Grand Slam in front of a record women's crowd at Twickenham in April, begin their title defence away against Italy a day later.

After missing out on last year's Rugby World Cup, where England lost to New Zealand in the final, Hunt was recalled last month and started the WXV final as the Red Roses beat the world champions.

Hunt has won 67 caps and head of women's performance Charlie Hayter said having a player with that experience was "invaluable" adding that she "suits the way we want to approach the game".

Wyrwas, 24, has six caps for the Red Roses.

She made her international debut in the 2023 Six Nations against Scotland. Hayter said the coaching staff were looking forward to seeing her "exciting talent evolve".

With Hunt and Wyrwas added to the squad, England now have 34 contracted players and six players on transition contracts.

England women will next come together for a training camp in January.