The Red Roses, England's women’s rugby union team, have unveiled a seasoned 36‑player roster for the upcoming home leg of the WXV Global Series, a competition that marks the inaugural season of this new international tournament. Head coach John Mitchell selected a blend of seasoned internationals and a handful of fresh faces, ensuring that 25 of the squad members have already tasted World Cup triumph. Captaining the side is veteran scrum‑half Megan Jones, who will lead a group that collectively boasts an impressive 1,234 caps across all positions.
While the majority of the squad are established internationals, three players – Bryony Field, Hayley Jones and Sophie McQueen – have yet to earn their first senior cap, indicating Mitchell’s willingness to integrate emerging talent into the senior set‑up. The first fixture on this domestic swing sees England take on Australia at the CorpAcq Stadium, located on the outskirts of Manchester, on Saturday 12 September.
This match will be a stern test of the squad’s cohesion and will serve as a benchmark ahead of a second encounter a week later, when the Red Roses host Canada at Sandy Park in Exeter. That game is particularly charged with narrative, as it mirrors the 2025 World Cup final showdown between the two nations, offering an opportunity for England to either reaffirm their dominance or learn from the experience. Fans are encouraged to view the broadcast using the Chrome browser, which provides a more accessible video player and a smoother streaming experience.
The home leg will conclude with a marquee clash against New Zealand’s Black Ferns at the iconic Allianz Stadium on Saturday 26 September. The venue, capable of accommodating over 50,000 spectators, promises a vibrant atmosphere and a true showcase of the sport’s growing popularity in England.
In his remarks, Coach Mitchell highlighted the positive momentum built during the pre‑season. He noted that the training camps have been intensive and deliberately designed to push players beyond the standard match‑day intensity. "The girls have worked hard to elevate their connections, making us stronger, and have driven high standards," Mitchell said.
He added that the team has been training at a level that exceeds regular competition, aiming to excite both the players and the wider public with the brand of rugby they intend to display across three Test matches on home soil. "This squad is only four weeks old; there is plenty in the tank. This is an exciting period to get after," he concluded. The 2026 season represents the first edition of the WXV Global Series, a competition that will run on a three‑year cycle from 2026 to 2028.
Unlike traditional league structures, the 12 participating nations are fixed for the entire cycle, meaning there will be no promotion or relegation during this period. This stability is intended to foster long‑term development and strategic planning among the top women’s rugby nations.
Following the home fixtures, the Red Roses will travel to North America in October, where they will face Canada and the United States as part of the series schedule. These matches will test the squad’s adaptability in different conditions and provide valuable experience against North American opposition. Below is the full squad list, divided by position: Forwards: - Sarah Bern - Hannah Botterman - Delaney Burns - Abi Burton - May Campbell - Mackenzie Carson - Kelsey Clifford - Amy Cokayne - Maddie Feaunati - Bryony Field (uncapped) - Haidee Head - Lilli Ives Campion - Hayley Jones (uncapped) - Sadia Kabeya - Haineala Lutui - Alex Matthews - Sophie McQueen (uncapped) - Maud Muir - Marlie Packer - Demelza Short - Morwenna Talling Backs: - Holly Aitchison - Jess Breach - Millie David - Zoe Harrison - Tatyana Heard - Natasha Hunt - Megan Jones (captain) - Ellie Kildunne - Claudia Moloney‑MacDonald - Lucy Packer - Flo Robinson - Helena Rowland - Emma Sing - Mia Venner - Bo Westcombe‑Evans The blend of experience and fresh talent gives England a balanced platform to compete at the highest level.
With a wealth of World Cup experience, a strong leadership core, and promising newcomers eager to make their mark, the Red Roses are positioned to deliver compelling performances throughout the home leg of the WXV Global Series and beyond.