England's Red Roses Ready to Make History in Women's Six Nations

Marlie Packer recalls a time when England rugby matches drew minimal crowds, but now, as the team's longest-serving member, she has experienced playing in front of a record-breaking 81,000 fans at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium. The electric atmosphere of the World Cup final left an indelible mark on Packer, who described it as 'the most sensational thing I've ever seen in rugby.' The tournament's success can be attributed to its nationwide reach, with matches held in various cities, allowing fans to engage with the team and ultimately leading to a sold-out final. As England prepares to defend their World Cup title in the Women's Six Nations, they are driven to create more history. The team, led by new captain Megan Jones, aims to become the first to win a Six Nations Grand Slam after a World Cup victory. This goal is built on a cultural transformation initiated by head coach John Mitchell four years ago, focusing on rebuilding the team's dynamics and identity beyond just tactics. The players credit Mitchell with fostering an environment that encourages them to be themselves, both on and off the pitch, and to continuously challenge and improve. With several new, uncapped players joining the squad, the team is eager to integrate them and continue pushing the boundaries of their success. For veteran players like Packer and newcomers alike, the ultimate goal is not just to win but to inspire a broader audience, including boys and girls, to engage with rugby and have fun. As the Red Roses embark on their Six Nations campaign, they are determined to evolve, improve, and make their mark on the sport, driven by their passion for the game and their desire to leave a lasting legacy.