Cath O'Donnell interview: England's World Cup wonder woman playing through the pain barrier

Cath O'Donnell has a rare ankle condition that makes running difficult for her. She has played for England since she was 16 years old. O’Donnell had to wait until she turned 18 to have it diagnosed. The condition threatened to derail her career. She is in pain at England”s Pennyhill Park training base. Emily Scarratt is hoofing practice kicks towards the posts. One loops cleanly through and hits a cameraman. It elicits a giggle from O'sonn. Her condition should have ended her prospects of being a professional athlete during her time in the England Under-20s.

Cath O'Donnell is playing through the pain barrier for England's World Cup squad. She has a lot of physical discomfort. She is having her load monitored a great deal. If she wins the World cup with England, it will be worth it.