Matt Ferguson returns to RFU with Red Roses

Former Northampton Saints and Harlequins coach Matt Ferguson has returned to the RFU as Scrum and Contact Skills Coach, joining the Red Roses and England women’s pathway on a long-term contract.

Matt Ferguson rejoins Red Roses coaching set-up

Ferguson previously worked with England Women as a forwards coach, including a three-year spell during which the Red Roses reached the 2017 Rugby World Cup final.

He later joined Northampton Saints in 2018 and spent seven seasons with the club. During his time with Northampton, Saints won the PREM Rugby Cup in 2019, claimed the PREM title in 2024 and reached the European Champions Cup final in 2025.

Ferguson moved to Harlequins in 2025 as Lead Rugby Transition Coach and has also worked with England A Men.

Red Roses prepare for WXV Global Series tour

Ferguson will work closely with head coach John Mitchell and support the development of players across the women’s pathway.

He will travel with England to North America for WXV Global Series Tests against Canada in Toronto on October 16 and Ottawa on October 23, before facing the USA in Harrison, New Jersey, on October 30.

Head of Women’s Performance Charlie Hayter said Ferguson’s experience in elite rugby and his work developing international forwards would strengthen both the senior Red Roses programme and the pathway beneath it.

Andy Holloway commits to England women’s programme

Skills and Kicking Coach Andy Holloway has also committed his future to the Red Roses and women’s pathway.

Holloway has worked with England for the past three seasons and was part of the coaching set-up during their successful 2025 Rugby World Cup campaign.

His previous experience includes six years with Ealing Trailfinders as well as roles involving the England Sevens men’s and women’s programmes and women’s pathway players.