Emily Scarratt takes full-time England role

Emily Scarratt has committed her long-term future to the Red Roses coaching team after being confirmed as England Women’s Attack Coach for the next Rugby World Cup cycle.

Emily Scarratt Confirmed As Red Roses Attack Coach

Scarratt initially joined the England coaching staff on an interim basis for the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, taking charge of attack and backs coaching.

The former England centre has now been retained in a permanent attack role after helping John Mitchell’s side deliver a successful Grand Slam campaign. The Red Roses were praised for their attacking ambition during the tournament, scoring 27 more points than their total in 2025.

England Women Build For Rugby World Cup Cycle

Scarratt said the Six Nations had been both challenging and rewarding as she adjusted to coaching in an environment where she had spent many years as a player.

“The Six Nations was challenging but hugely rewarding in equal measure,” Scarratt said

“I'd spent so many years in the Red Roses environment as a player, so stepping into a coaching role in the same setting was a new experience and, at times, slightly unnerving. There was plenty of uncertainty, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity and learned so much already."

She said working with the Red Roses players and staff had been a privilege and added that the squad had a strong desire to keep improving and expressing themselves on the pitch.

“It's been a real privilege to work with such a talented group of players and staff, and I'm looking forward to seeing how we can continue to develop our attack.

"We have a fantastic pool of players who are eager to keep improving and express themselves on the pitch.

Scarratt Leaves Loughborough Lightning Role

Head coach John Mitchell praised Scarratt’s impact, saying she had brought insight, calmness and experience to the Red Roses coaching group.

"Emily has already made a significant impact on our environment in a coaching capacity, and during the Six Nations she proved to be a huge asset with the insight, calmness and experience she brings every day.

“She leads by example and has a deep understanding of what it means to represent the Red Roses; she is someone who adds immense value to everyone around her.

"Emily has a brilliant coaching brain and cares deeply about evolving our game. We're excited to see her continue to develop as a coach and help drive the team forward.”

Scarratt will now end her eight-year association with Loughborough Lightning, where she had continued as an assistant coach while working with England. She thanked the club for its support and said she would always look back on her time there with gratitude.

"Loughborough has been so much more than just a club to me over the past eight years,” she said.

“I’ve been surrounded by incredible people who have challenged and supported me in every way possible.

"I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone connected with the club. I'll always look back on my time with immense gratitude. Thank you for everything."