Kent duo Catherine Spencer and Rachael Burford have been named in the England Women's Elite rugby squad for the 2009/2010 season.

Spencer (pictured), from Folkestone, and Burford, from Medway, were selected in a squad for 44 players by England Head Coach Gary Street.

They will contest a three test series against New Zealand in November and then the RBS 6 Nations in February and March.

With England hosting the IRB Women's Rugby World Cup in August and September next year in London, this is a crucial year for the reigning RBS 6 Nations and Nations Cup champions.

"We have a very busy international programme this season and that will give everyone in this squad the chance to put their hands up for a place in next year's World Cup squad," said Street.