John Mitchell, the astute head coach of the Red Roses, has recently unveiled a strong ensemble of 36 players for the forthcoming WXV campaign. This selection notably includes 25 athletes who triumphed in the World Cup, forming a team brimming with proven winners and rugby prowess.
This stellar lineup is set to carry the legacy of their past glory into the WXV series, continuing their reign as the number one team in the world. The squad is gearing up for a challenging series of matches scheduled across September, facing formidable teams including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand's Black Ferns.
Meg Jones, who stepped up as captain during the Six Nations, will continue to lead the team. Her leadership is crucial as the squad aims to maintain their top form in the international arena. The team’s depth is further highlighted by the inclusion of seasoned players like Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Mo Hunt, Ellie Kildunne, Jess Breach, Holly Aitchison, and Sadia Kabeya, contributing to a cumulative total of 1,234 Test caps.
John Mitchell’s eye for fresh talent is evident with his addition of three uncapped players: Bryony Field from Saracens, Trailfinders' Hayley Jones, and Sophie McQueen from Gloucester-Hartpury. These players are expected to bring new energy and skills, potentially making their senior Test debuts during this series.
"It’s been a positive pre-season in the way we have trained and the exposure we have given to players. The girls have worked hard to elevate their connections, making us stronger, and have driven high standards."
Mitchell's confidence in the team’s preparation shines through. He emphasized the squad’s robust pre-season training, which not only honed their skills but also tested their game play above the usual intensity.
"We have trained above the game level with great intensity and now we have an opportunity to excite ourselves, and the country, by the way we play rugby in three Test matches across the country."
This anticipation builds as Mitchell remarked on the freshness of his squad. Despite its recent formation, there's a shared optimism about what they can achieve. "This squad is only four weeks old; there is plenty in the tank. This is an exciting period to get after,” he noted, pointing towards the potential growth and on-field success that could unfold in the upcoming matches.
Here's a detailed roster of the players forming the Red Roses squad for the WXV campaign:
Forwards:- Sarah Bern
- Hannah Botterman
- Delaney Burns
- Abi Burton
- May Campbell
- Mackenzie Carson
- Kelsey Clifford
- Amy Cokayne
- Maddie Feaunati
- Bryony Field
- Haidee Head
- Lilli Ives Campion
- Hayley Jones
- Sadia Kabeya
- Haineala Lutui
- Alex Matthews
- Sophie McQueen
- Maud Muir
- Marlie Packer
- Demelza Short
- Morwenna Talling
- Holly Aitchison
- Jess Breach
- Millie David
- Zoe Harrison
- Tatyana Heard
- Natasha Hunt
- Megan Jones
- Ellie Kildunne
- Claudia Moloney-MacDonald
- Lucy Packer
- Flo Robinson
- Helena Rowland
- Emma Sing
- Mia Venner
- Bo Westcombe-Evans
As they march onto the field, the Red Roses are not just playing for victory but are also setting the stage for a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship for rugby fans around the world. This campaign promises to be a showcase of top-tier rugby, blending experienced warriors and promising newcomers in a spectacle that is bound to captivate and inspire.
