Rugby club inspired by Women's World Cup

A women's rugby club in Walsall says the Rugby World Cup is having a "huge impact" on the game.

Handsworth Ladies RUFC has one team, but players are hoping exposure from the tournament might encourage more women to join.

The England team, which has been fully professional since 2019, is bidding to win the World Cup for a third time - with the final against Canada on Saturday.

Handsworth Ladies vice captain Beth Smith, 31, said: "To see these ladies on the big screen has been absolutely pivotal to the grass roots game. I really hope that more ladies find their way down to our club and see what we're all about."

Another Handsworth player, Ruth Lawrenson, 33, is a flanker and pack leader, she said: "The visibility of elite players on such a big stage has been powerful.

"Young girls, women, they're seeing role models with strong bodies of all shapes and sizes, so shows them there isn't just one way to be an athlete.

Players say they have had a number of new and returning players join since the tournament started.

"The buzz and excitement around the tournament has just created more awareness and made rugby feel more accessible and welcoming."

Handsworth Ladies, which was founded in 2014, say a number of new and returning players have joined since the tournament started.

Miss Lawrenson added: "There's also been a noticeable increase in spectators at our matches as well, which makes a massive difference in the atmosphere."

Handsworth Ladies RUFC train every Wednesday evening from 19:00 until 20:30.

The Women's World Cup Final kicks off at 16:00 BST, will be shown live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app.