England Red Roses fly half Zoe Harrison has strongly criticized World Rugby's decision to trial a smaller ball in women's rugby, calling it the "worst decision someone has ever made." The controversy centers around the introduction of a size 4.5 ball for the upcoming WXV Global Series later this year, a move that has sparked heated debate in the rugby community.

The new ball, manufactured by Gilbert, is approximately three percent smaller than the standard size 5 but retains the same weight. World Rugby hopes this adjustment will address concerns about the ball's impact on the kicking game. While sports like cricket and basketball commonly use smaller balls in women's competitions—citing average hand size differences of about 10 percent between men and women—Harrison is unconvinced.

Harrison, who played a pivotal role in England's World Cup victory last year, is widely regarded as one of the world's best kickers. Speaking to the BBC, she expressed her frustration: "I've not kicked any less than a size five since I was the age of 14. There is not the same amount of surface area for you to wrap your foot around." Her comments carry weight, given her impeccable form this season—she has successfully converted all 15 of her goal attempts in the Women's Six Nations.

The debate arrives as Harrison prepares to lead England against Italy in Parma this Saturday. Looking ahead, John Mitchell's squad will host Australia, Canada, and New Zealand in the WXV Global Series this September, followed by a North American tour in October featuring two more showdowns with the team they defeated in the World Cup final. Rugby Canada has confirmed those matches will take place at BMO Field in Toronto and TD Place in Ottawa.

As the trial moves forward, Harrison's vocal opposition highlights a growing divide over whether smaller equipment enhances or undermines the women's game. For fans and players alike, the discussion is far from over.