By Mitch Phillips LONDON (Reuters) -Organisers of the Women's Rugby World Cup, which begins when hosts England play the United States on Friday, have announced ticket sales that have totally dwarfed previous tournaments,

Prospects: A team that should stay poised under pressure. Eleven players have more than 50 caps, led by back Sofia Stefan’s 98. Ten players are going to their third RWC. Keep an eye on center-wing Alyssa D’Inca, a threat since last year who scored four tries across the Azzurre's warmup wins over Scotland and Japan.

England are clear favourites to win the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which kicks off on August 23. But that oval ball can bounce in unexpected directions.