Shaun Edwards has been brought into the England women’s rugby set‑up as a consultant, a move confirmed by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) that will see him remain with the squad until the conclusion of the WXV Global Series. The appointment follows his abrupt dismissal as France’s defence coach earlier in the year, and now places him with the Red Roses for the remainder of the current campaign, culminating in their final fixture against the United States in New Jersey on 30 October.

The 59‑year‑old former rugby league star has already begun integrating with the world‑champion side ahead of their upcoming clash with New Zealand at Allianz Stadium. England head coach John Mitchell spoke highly of the new addition, explaining that after Edwards’ tenure with France ended, the two parties discussed the possibility of him working within an international women’s environment for the first time. Mitchell highlighted Edwards’ admiration for the Red Roses and their ethos, noting that the former Great Britain captain sees the role as a privilege and an opportunity to contribute his extensive expertise.

"His coaching credentials are exceptional and his experience at the highest level of the game speaks for itself," Mitchell said. "Defensively, Sarah Hunter is relishing the chance to learn from him, alongside the rest of our coaching group, as we head into another exciting Test match against New Zealand.

Shaun will add to the programme and provide incredible value to the girls over the remainder of the WXV Global Series." The Red Roses entered the series on a remarkable run of 39 consecutive Test victories, a streak that was halted only recently when they drew 26‑26 with Canada in Exeter. After the forthcoming encounter with New Zealand in London, England’s schedule will close out the Global Series in October with two matches against Canada and a final showdown with the United States on foreign soil.

This appointment marks only the fourth senior coaching role in Edwards’ distinguished 25‑year career, joining previous stints with Wasps, Wales and the French national side. His departure from France was unexpected, especially after the French team secured the Six Nations title in March.

Edwards had overseen the French defence since 2020 and was part of the coaching group that helped Les Bleus capture three Six Nations championships. However, head coach Fabien Galthié announced in June that a reshuffle of the back‑room staff was necessary, leading to Edwards’ removal.

By taking a short‑term position with the England women, Edwards keeps his options open for involvement in the men’s Six Nations later this year. He has expressed a clear ambition to be linked with a side in time for that competition, stating that the tournament is the benchmark by which he measures his own success. In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, Edwards said, "The Six Nations is my tournament.

It's what I judge myself on. I love the history of it. I love being involved in it.

For me it's the best and it will come around quickly. Would I be disappointed if I wasn't involved next year? Of course I would be.

Having been the most successful coach in the history of the competition, I'll be a little bit cheesed off if I'm not." At present, there is no concrete indication that Edwards will be appointed to the England men’s coaching staff. Current head coach Steve Borthwick already has a well‑stocked team of assistants, with his deputy Richard Wigglesworth presently responsible for the defensive unit—Edwards’ primary area of expertise.

Nonetheless, the short‑term nature of his role with the Red Roses gives Edwards the flexibility to pursue opportunities with the men’s side once the WXV series concludes. The inclusion of a coach with such a high‑profile background is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the Red Roses’ defensive structures. Edwards’ experience in both rugby league and union, combined with his proven track record at the international level, should provide valuable insights for players like Sarah Hunter, who are eager to refine their tactical awareness and on‑field decision‑making.

Moreover, his presence may serve as a bridge between the women’s and men’s codes, fostering a cross‑pollination of ideas that could benefit both programs. In summary, Shaun Edwards’ appointment as a consultant to the England women’s rugby team represents a strategic move by the RFU to bolster the squad’s defensive acumen ahead of the final stages of the WXV Global Series. While his tenure is limited to the remainder of the competition, the expertise he brings could have lasting effects on the Red Roses’ performance and on the broader development of women’s rugby in England.

The arrangement also positions Edwards to remain in contention for future roles within the men’s national set‑up, keeping his ambitions aligned with the premier tournament that defines his coaching legacy.