Defending champions England scored eight tries as they thrashed Scotland 52-10 on Saturday in the opening match of the Women's Six Nations. England, who completed the Grand Slam both in 2019 and 2020, took the lead in Doncaster after nine minutes with a try by flanker Marlie Packer. Six other players touched down for England, whose last score was a penalty try. Emily Scarratt converted five. Hannah Smith replied for Scotland in the 54th minute while England were down to 14 women. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the tournament has started late in a modified format with two pools of three teams. Italy are the third team in England's group. Later Saturday, France routed Wales 53-0 in Vannes. The French were 21-0 ahead after just 15 minutes thanks to a hat-trick of tries from winger Caroline Boujard. After 35 minutes, the offensive bonus was wrapped up thanks to a fourth try from hooker Agathe Sochat. In the second half, four more tries were added, including a double from No.8 Emeline Gros. The tournament ends with a finals day on April 24. ll/pb/dj/mw