Shaun Edwards has been brought into the England women’s rugby programme as a consultant, a move confirmed by the Rugby Football Union that will see him remain with the side until the conclusion of the WXV Global Series. The appointment follows Edwards’ abrupt dismissal from his role as France’s defence coach earlier in the year, and now gives the former league star a chance to work with the Red Roses ahead of their final fixture of the current campaign, a match against the United States in New Jersey scheduled for 30 October. At 59, Edwards is one of the most recognised figures in rugby league, and his arrival coincides with a crucial period for England women’s rugby.
He began his stint with the world champions in the run‑up to Saturday’s test against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, where the coaching staff hopes his expertise will sharpen the defensive structures that have been a hallmark of the team’s recent success. England head coach John Mitchell spoke highly of the new addition, saying, “After Shaun’s tenure with France came to an end, we discussed the game and he expressed a genuine desire to experience an international women’s set‑up for the first time. He holds the Red Roses in very high regard and sees it as an honour to be part of our environment.
His coaching résumé is outstanding, and his experience at the sport’s highest levels speaks for itself.” Mitchell added that senior captain Sarah Hunter was eager to learn from Edwards, noting, “Defensively, Sarah is looking forward to absorbing his insights, as are the rest of our coaching group, as we head into another exciting Test against New Zealand. Shaun will enrich the programme and deliver tremendous value to the squad for the remainder of the WXV Global Series.” The Red Roses entered the series on a remarkable 39‑match winning run, a streak that was halted on Saturday when they were held to a 26‑26 draw by Canada in Exeter.
After that result, England will face New Zealand in London before concluding the series in October with two matches against Canada and a final showdown with the United States on American soil. This consultancy marks only the fourth senior appointment in Edwards’ distinguished 25‑year coaching career.
His résumé already includes spells with the Wasps, the Welsh national side and the French senior team, and the England women’s role adds another high‑profile chapter. Edwards’ departure from France came as a surprise, especially after the French side secured the Six Nations title in March. He had overseen French defence since 2020 and was instrumental in three championship victories, but head coach Fabien Galthié announced in June that he wanted to refresh a back‑room that had become entrenched. By taking a short‑term position with the Red Roses, Edwards keeps his options open for the men’s Six Nations, a competition he has described as his personal benchmark.
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 its history and being part of it.
It’s the pinnacle for me and will come around quickly. Would I be disappointed if I wasn’t involved next year? Absolutely. Having been the most successful coach in the competition’s history, I’d be a little cheesed off if I missed out.” While there is currently no official word that Edwards will join the England men’s coaching staff, his short‑term engagement does not preclude future involvement.
Head coach Steve Borthwick already has a well‑stocked coaching team, with Richard Wigglesworth acting as the defence coach – the very area where Edwards specialises. Nonetheless, the possibility remains that Edwards could be called upon to lend his expertise to the men’s side once his commitments with the Red Roses are fulfilled. Beyond the immediate tactical benefits, Edwards’ presence brings a wealth of experience in player development, game analysis and defensive strategy.
He has worked with elite athletes across both codes of rugby, understanding the nuances of positional play, tackling technique and communication under pressure. His reputation for fostering a strong defensive culture is expected to complement England’s existing game plan, which emphasizes quick ball recycling, aggressive line speed and disciplined breakdown work. The timing of his appointment also aligns with a broader push to strengthen women’s rugby in England. The RFU has invested heavily in the women's game, aiming to build depth, increase visibility and sustain the high standards set by the Red Roses.
Bringing a high‑profile coach like Edwards into the fold signals a commitment to providing the squad with world‑class support staff, ensuring that the team remains competitive on the global stage. In summary, Shaun Edwards’ short‑term consultancy with the England women’s rugby team represents a strategic move for both parties. The Red Roses gain a seasoned defensive mind to help navigate the final stages of the WXV Global Series, while Edwards secures a platform to stay involved in top‑level international rugby ahead of the next men’s Six Nations.
Whether this partnership will evolve into a longer‑term role remains to be seen, but the immediate impact is already being felt as the squad prepares for its upcoming challenges.