Get ready to witness the future of women’s rugby—because the Red Roses are shaking things up in a big way. Eleven uncapped players have been named in England’s 47-strong pre-Six Nations training squad, and this isn’t just a refresh—it’s a revolution. Among them is Sophie Hopkins, the England Under-20s wing who’s juggling a biochemistry degree with a season at French powerhouse Lyon. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this the right time to bring in so many new faces after a Rugby World Cup triumph? Or is this bold move exactly what the team needs to stay on top? Let’s dive in.
The squad isn’t just about fresh talent—it’s a blend of the old and the new. Four Trailfinders Women forwards—Jasmine Adonri, Haidee Head, Hayley Jones, and Annabel Meta—are in the mix, aiming to earn their first caps. Meanwhile, Loughborough Lightning’s 19-year-old number eight, Haineala Lutui, who’s been dominating the PWR with her carries, gets her shot after impressing in the age-grade setup. And Harlequins’ Nicole Wythe, part of last season’s team of the year, joins her in the back row. But this is the part most people miss: the inclusion of Sarah Parry, whose stellar form has helped Quins climb to third in the table, shows that consistency pays off—even in a team of champions.
All 32 players from the World Cup-winning squad are back, minus the retired Emily Scarratt and Abby Dow. Hooker Lark Atkin-Davies, who’s expecting a child in June, will follow a personalized training program—a heartwarming reminder that rugby and life can coexist beautifully. Speaking of comebacks, Bristol’s Millie David, the 20-year-old try-scoring machine, steps into the back three following Dow’s departure. Yet, Gloucester-Hartpury’s Mia Venner makes the cut, while Bo Westcombe-Evans, who’s scored five tries since returning from a serious knee injury, is overlooked. Is this a missed opportunity, or a strategic choice? Let us know what you think in the comments.
Head coach John Mitchell puts it plainly: ‘As we enter a new cycle, this camp will focus on aligning our communication and resetting our culture to win.’ He acknowledges the natural regeneration in rugby, calling it an ‘exciting opportunity’ for young players. But the real question is: can they adapt quickly enough to make an impact? The clock is ticking.
Off the field, the Red Roses are on fire too. England’s Six Nations opener against Ireland at Twickenham on April 11 is already on track to break attendance records. With over 50,000 tickets sold three months out, could this match surpass the 58,498 fans who watched the 2023 finale? It’s not just a game—it’s a movement.
Here’s the full squad:
Forwards:
Lark Atkin-Davies (Bristol Bears), Maisy Allen (Exeter Chiefs), Jasmine Adonri (Trailfinders Women), Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears), Hannah Botterman (Bristol Bears), Abi Burton (Trailfinders Women), May Campbell (Saracens), Mackenzie Carson (Gloucester-Hartpury), Kelsey Clifford (Saracens), Amy Cokayne (Sale Sharks), Steph Else (Gloucester-Hartpury), Maddie Feaunati (Exeter Chiefs), Keevy Fitzpatrick (Loughborough Lightning), Rosie Galligan (Saracens), Lizzie Hanlon (Harlequins), Haidee Head (Trailfinders Women), Lilli Ives Campion (Loughborough Lightning), Hayley Jones (Trailfinders Women), Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning), Haineala Lutui (Loughborough Lightning), Alex Matthews (Gloucester-Hartpury), Annabel Meta (Trailfinders Women), Maud Muir (Gloucester-Hartpury), Marlie Packer (Saracens), Connie Powell (Harlequins), Zoe Stratford (Gloucester-Hartpury), Morwenna Talling (Sale Sharks), Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears), Nicole Wythe (Harlequins).
Backs:
Holly Aitchison (Sale Sharks), Jess Breach (Saracens), Millie David (Bristol Bears), Zoe Harrison (Saracens), Tatyana Heard (Gloucester-Hartpury), Sophie Hopkins (LOU Rugby)*, Natasha Hunt (Gloucester-Hartpury), Megan Jones (Trailfinders Women), Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins), Claudia Moloney-MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs), Lucy Packer (Harlequins), Sarah Parry (Harlequins), Flo Robinson (Exeter Chiefs), Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning), Jade Shekells (Gloucester-Hartpury), Emma Sing (Gloucester-Hartpury), Mia Venner (Gloucester-Hartpury), Ella Wyrwas (Saracens).
*Playing for LOU Rugby while studying abroad.
So, what do you think? Is this squad the perfect blend of experience and youth, or are there names you’d add or remove? The Red Roses are rewriting the script—and we can’t wait to see how this story unfolds.
