Shaun Edwards has been appointed as a consultant to the England women’s rugby coaching staff, a role that will run through the remainder of the WXV Global Series, according to an announcement from the Rugby Football Union. The former rugby league star, now 59, steps into the Red Roses’ setup after his dismissal as France’s defence coach earlier this year. His tenure with England will conclude after the team’s final fixture of the current campaign, a match against the United States in New Jersey on 30 October.
Edwards, whose reputation as a defensive specialist is well‑established, began his work with the world‑champion side ahead of their Saturday showdown with New Zealand at Allianz Stadium. England head coach John Mitchell praised the appointment, noting that the conversation with Edwards began soon after his exit from the French set‑up.
Mitchell explained that Edwards expressed a genuine desire to experience coaching at the international women’s level for the first time, and that he holds the Red Roses in high regard. “He sees it as a privilege to join our environment,” Mitchell said, adding that Edwards’ coaching résumé is “exceptional” and his experience at the sport’s highest echelons “speaks for itself.” The former Great Britain captain will focus primarily on defensive structures, a task that Sarah Hunter, England’s captain, welcomes. Hunter is eager to absorb Edwards’ expertise alongside the rest of the coaching team as they prepare for the upcoming test against New Zealand.
Mitchell believes Edwards 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 high note, having compiled a 39‑test winning streak before a 26‑26 draw with Canada in Exeter halted their run. After the New Zealand clash in London, England’s schedule will see them travel abroad for two matches against Canada and a final encounter with the United States in October, bringing the series to a close. This consultancy marks only the fourth senior appointment in Edwards’ distinguished 25‑year coaching career. His résumé already includes stints with Wasps, Wales and France, making the England women’s role a notable addition.
Edwards’ departure from France was unexpected; despite guiding Les Bleus to three Six Nations titles since taking charge of their defence in 2020, head coach Fabien Galthié opted for a back‑room overhaul in June, citing a desire for fresh ideas after the French side secured the Six Nations crown in March. By taking a short‑term position with the Red Roses, Edwards keeps his options open for involvement in the men’s Six Nations. He has indicated a clear ambition to secure a role with a men’s side in time for the next tournament.
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 integrated into the England men’s coaching staff.
Head coach Steve Borthwick already has a robust back‑room team, with his deputy Richard Wigglesworth currently overseeing defensive duties – the very area in which Edwards specialises. Nonetheless, the consultant role provides Edwards with a platform to stay engaged with elite international rugby while he seeks his next long‑term appointment.
Edwards’ arrival brings a wealth of experience to the Red Roses, who are looking to rebound from their recent draw and finish the WXV series strongly. His defensive acumen, honed through years of success in both league and union environments, is expected to sharpen England’s back‑line organization and resilience against top‑tier opponents.
The partnership also underscores a growing trend of cross‑gender coaching appointments, reflecting the increasing professionalism and resource sharing within the sport. Beyond the immediate tactical impact, Edwards’ presence offers mentorship for the squad’s younger players. His career, which includes captaining Great Britain and contributing to multiple championship victories, provides a living example of leadership and perseverance.
By working closely with the coaching staff and players, he aims to embed a culture of defensive discipline that can endure beyond his short‑term contract. The WXV Global Series itself represents a pivotal moment for women’s rugby, offering a structured, high‑profile competition that showcases the sport’s growth worldwide. England’s participation, bolstered by Edwards’ expertise, will be closely watched as the team strives to maintain its status as a leading force on the global stage.
As the series draws to a close in October, the Red Roses will look to translate the lessons learned under Edwards’ guidance into sustained success in future tournaments. In summary, Shaun Edwards’ brief consultancy with the England women’s team is a strategic move for both parties: the Red Roses gain a seasoned defensive mind to sharpen their game ahead of crucial fixtures, while Edwards remains active at the highest level of international rugby, positioning himself for potential involvement in the men’s Six Nations later this year.