Women's Six Nations 2025 preview: England
- Gaby Harman-Craddock
- Mar 21
- 2 min read
The England Women’s Rugby Team will kick off their Guinness Women’s Six Nations campaign on the 23rd March at 3pm facing Italy at home.
England, also known as the Red Roses, have a rich legacy in women’s rugby, with high hopes for this year’s tournament as they look to defend their title.
History
The England Women’s Rugby Team played their first official match in 1987, marking the start of a remarkable journey in women’s rugby. Since then, they have been a dominant force in the sport, winning the Women’s Six Nations Championship a record 16 times, with 3 Grand Slams. England have also won the Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1994 and 2014.
The team has been governed by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) since 1991, and in recent years, England has been at the forefront of professionalising women’s rugby. In 2020, the RFU signed full-time contracts for women’s players, enhancing the team’s performance.
Head Coach
John Mitchell has been heading up the Roses’ coaching team since 2023. The former All Black has over three decades of international experience, most recently coaching the Japanese side.
Mitchell also worked as a forwards coach for England Men’s team from 1997-2000 and then as a defence coach from 2018-2021.
Captain
Zoe Aldcroft, who made her international debut in 2016, captains the world no.1 side. Known for her leadership both on and off the field, Aldcroft will guide the squad through the Six Nations after captaining her club, Gloucester-Hartpury, since 2018.
Aldcroft will be supported by vice-captains Marlie Packer and Megan Jones. These three make a strong leadership team with a mix of experience and youthful energy.
Fixtures
The Red Roses will compete in the 2025 Guinness Women's Six Nations Championship with the following fixtures:
23/03/2025: England vs Italy, LNER Community Stadium, 15:00
29/03/2025: Wales vs England, Principality Stadium, 16:45
12/04/2025: Ireland vs England, Virgin Media Park, 16:45
19/04/2025: England vs Scotland, Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium, 16:45
26/04/2025: England vs France, Allianz Stadium, 16:45
In the UK, all England Women’s Six Nations fixtures will be available to stream on BBC and BBC iPlayer.
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