Red Roses Seek to Make History with Grand Slam Title

Marlie Packer recalls a time when England rugby matches drew minimal crowds, but now the team's longest-serving player has experienced the thrill of playing before 81,000 spectators. The World Cup final at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium last autumn was a sold-out event, and Packer was awestruck by the electric atmosphere. 'It was the most incredible thing I've ever witnessed in rugby,' she said, describing the moment as 'sensational.' The tournament's success was not limited to one location, as it traveled across the country, attracting fans at every stop and culminating in a record-breaking crowd at the final. England's Women's Six Nations campaign is set to begin, and the reigning world champions are determined to make history by becoming the first team to follow a World Cup title with a Six Nations Grand Slam. The team's head coach, John Mitchell, deliberately rebuilt the team's culture when he arrived four years ago, focusing on creating a strong off-pitch dynamic. 'It wasn't just about the on-pitch performance,' Packer explained. 'It was about changing the culture, and he did that from the start. He wanted us to be ourselves, to enjoy each other's company, and to elevate our game.' The team's captain, Megan Jones, believes that the group is not afraid to challenge themselves and push boundaries. 'We don't just want to maintain the status quo,' she said. 'We want to break it and see if we can withstand it, to keep raising the bar and improving our game.' The team's approach is unusual for a world champion, but it is convincing. The Red Roses have a number of uncapped players, including Christiana Balogun, Millie David, Haineala Lutui, Annabel Meta, Sarah Parry, Demelza Short, and Jodie Verghese. Flanker Sadia Kabeya credits Mitchell with creating an ideal environment for the young players to develop. 'It allows you to be yourself and push outside your comfort zone,' she said. There is a sense that something has shifted since the World Cup, with Packer noticing a change in the fans, particularly at club appearances. 'I want to inspire anyone, regardless of age or gender,' she said. 'I want to encourage people to pick up a ball and have fun, because rugby has given me so much more than just a game – it's given me friendships and a sense of community.' Kabeya shares Packer's sentiment, emphasizing that the team's impact extends beyond the sport itself. 'It's not just about inspiring women or girls,' she said. 'It's about inspiring everyone, and growing the fanbase.' Despite their professionalism, the team is still full of personality, and Jones hopes that people see the individuality and camaraderie within the squad. The Six Nations opener on Saturday promises another record crowd and another chance for the Red Roses to make history. 'I'm excited to get back on the pitch and be with the girls,' Kabeya said. 'We're building on the momentum of the World Cup, and we hope to see even bigger crowds and better atmospheres.' Packer, with 112 caps under her belt, has a unique perspective on what the team needs to do heading into the Six Nations. 'We can't just rely on our World Cup win,' she said. 'We need to keep evolving and putting our best foot forward.'