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

Marlie Packer recalls a time when England's rugby matches drew minimal crowds, with only a handful of spectators, including dogs, in attendance. Fast forward to the present, and the seasoned player has experienced the thrill of playing before a packed stadium of 81,000 fans. The electric atmosphere at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium during the World Cup final left an indelible mark on Packer, who described the scene as 'sensational.' The tournament's success can be attributed to its widespread reach, with matches held in various locations across the country, including Sunderland, Northampton, and Brighton, garnering a massive following. As the Red Roses prepare to kick off their Women's Six Nations campaign as reigning world champions, they are determined to create history by becoming the first team to win a Grand Slam after a World Cup title. The team's remarkable journey is a testament to the deliberate and careful rebuilding efforts of head coach John Mitchell, who focused on transforming the team's culture rather than just its tactics. Mitchell's approach has fostered an environment that encourages players to be themselves, both on and off the pitch, and to constantly strive for improvement. The team's captain, Megan Jones, emphasizes the importance of resisting complacency and continuously pushing boundaries to raise the bar. The influx of new players, including seven uncapped athletes, has brought fresh energy to the team, and flanker Sadia Kabeya credits Mitchell with creating an ideal environment for them to thrive. The World Cup has marked a significant turning point, not only in terms of attendance figures but also in the team's impact on the sport as a whole. Packer and Kabeya are keenly aware of the responsibility that comes with their platform, and they hope to inspire not just young girls but also boys and men to take up the sport. As the Red Roses prepare to face another record-breaking crowd in their Six Nations opener, they remain focused on their goal of winning while showcasing their unique personalities and camaraderie. With 112 caps under her belt, Packer is well aware of the challenges that lie ahead and stresses the need for continuous evolution and improvement to stay ahead of the curve.