An era-defining Women's Rugby World Cup has set records even before it kicks off on Friday when host England plays the United States in Sunderland.

Red Roses have extra spring in step for home World Cup after Lionesses success this summer; England target first world title since 2014; Tournament favourites start campaign against USA in Sunderland

England head into the Women's Rugby World Cup as strong favourites but are under huge pressure to end more than 20 years of disappointment in the sport's showpiece event.