By Benjamin Young

Since winning the Rugby World Cup last year England Women have faltered on the big stage, but former star Maggie Alphonsi is adamant the chance for a hat-trick of titles in 2017 is still very much alive.

Lewisham-born Alphonsi, playing in her second global tournament, was part of the England side that beat Canada 21-9 in August 2014 to become world champions.

The 31-year-old hung up her boots following the triumph and in her absence England have failed to live up to expectations, finishing fourth at this year’s Six Nations.

However, it is not Alphonsi’s absence – who was part of all seven-straight successes – that is to blame but rather the inclusion of rugby sevens in the Olympic programme for Rio 2016.

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Several of England’s XV stars have been included in the sevens squad as England helped secure Team GB a place in Brazil, but Alphonsi believes World Cup success in 2017 in Ireland is still a real possibility.

“England have gone through these massive management changes and teams often go through transitions after a big World Cup to adapt for the next tournament,” said Alphonsi at a Wooden Spoon event.

“It’s very difficult, now they are part of the sevens program it means they are further removed from the XVs structure, but their knowledge and expertise is still relevant.

“The challenge that presents is that you’re taking away some of your most experienced players, who will come back for the next World Cup, but one season out is quite a big systematic change.

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“Results haven’t been great but what’s positive is that we’ve got an extra two years to develop these players and make it right.

“It’s about peaking for a World Cup not what’s in between. They’re going to go through ups and downs but hopefully they can come up with another consecutive World Cup win in 2017. That’s the priority.”

Alphonsi is adamant the talent is there for all to see in the current England crop.

“Charlotte Clapp is a very good winger who’s got a bit of gas,” she added.

“Sarah Mckenna is also a very talented player. She plays full-back and is one for the future. Abbie Scott is a physical unit and a prospect. So these girls are coming through and it’s great to see.”

Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of rugby. For more information visit woodenspoon.org.uk.

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