WORCESTER Warriors’ back-row forward and England international Alex Matthews has been selected in the 24-strong squad for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic rugby sevens tournament.

Matthews, 27, played a starring role for Warriors during the 2020/21 Allianz Premier 15s season which helped her earn more caps for England in this year’s triumphant Six Nations championship.

The flanker has played 40 times for her country and goes into this summer’s Olympics on the back of stellar campaign with Warriors.

“We are all so proud of Alex,” said Warriors Women Director of Rugby Jo Yapp.

“She has worked so hard this year and thoroughly deserves this opportunity.”

Abbie Brown and Megan Jones will co-captain the women’s squad which features a number of players who have experience of playing on the World Rugby Sevens Series and have played international rugby for a number of years.

Women’s Head Coach Scott Forrest said: “Selection was very tough. We’ve had 22 players involved in the programme since we started in March who have created a very competitive environment.

“Every one of those players has been so important. And it’s not just about the successful 13 players who have been selected today. If we are successful in Tokyo, it’s going to be down to the whole squad, the whole 22, not just those who are going out to perform at the Olympic Games.

“I’ve seen massive improvements in the team and what we’ve managed to do since March.

“We’re now excited to see what we can do in 41 days’ time from now.

“For the 13 that are selected, when you look at the squad on paper it’s very exciting.

“This squad for me has the potential to go and win a gold medal. We have 41 days to go until the first game and understand that there are improvements we need to make. We’ve definitely got the potential and that is really exciting.”

Team GB Women’s squad: Holly Aitchison, Abbie Brown, Abi Burton, Deborah Fleming, Natasha Hunt, Megan Jones, Jazmine Joyce, Alex Matthews, Helena Rowland, Hannah Smith, Celia Quansah, Emma Uren.