Red Roses name 36-player WXV squad

England head coach John Mitchell has named a 36-player Red Roses squad for the home leg of the WXV Global Series, with captain Megan Jones leading a group containing 25 members of the 2025 Rugby World Cup-winning squad.

Megan Jones leads experienced Red Roses squad

The squad boasts a combined 1,234 international caps as England prepare for three home Tests against Australia, Canada and New Zealand during September.

Jones will captain a group combining established internationals with players who have been given opportunities during an intensive pre-season programme.

England began preparations with three weeks at the University of Nottingham before returning to London and continuing their training programme at The Lensbury.

Mitchell said the focus throughout pre-season had been on strengthening connections within the squad while maintaining high training standards and intensity.

“It’s been a positive pre-season in the way we have trained and the exposure we have given to players. The girls have worked hard to elevate their connections, making us stronger, and have driven high standards.

“We have trained above the game level with great intensity and now we have an opportunity to excite ourselves, and the country, by the way we play rugby in three Test matches across the country."

Red Roses begin WXV series against Australia

England open their WXV Global Series campaign against Australia at the CorpAcq Stadium in Salford on Saturday, September 12.

They then travel to Sandy Park in Exeter to face Canada on September 19, in a rematch of the 2025 Rugby World Cup final won by England.

The home programme concludes against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on September 26, with more than 50,000 spectators expected for the fixture.

John Mitchell targets strong England performances

Mitchell believes England’s preparations have provided players with valuable exposure while allowing the squad to develop its combinations ahead of the three-Test programme.

“This squad is only four weeks old; there is plenty in the tank,” Mitchell said.

Red Roses squad:

Forwards: Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Delaney Burns, Abi Burton, May Campbell, Mackenzie Carson, Kelsey Clifford, Amy Cokayne, Maddie Feaunati, Bryony Field, Haidee Head, Lilli Ives Campion, Hayley Jones, Sadia Kabeya, Haineala Lutui, Alex Matthews, Sophie McQueen, Maud Muir, Marlie Packer, Demelza Short, Morwenna Talling.

Backs: Holly Aitchison, Jess Breach, Millie David, Zoe Harrison, Tatyana Heard, Natasha Hunt, Megan Jones, Ellie Kildunne, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, Lucy Packer, Flo Robinson, Helena Rowland, Emma Sing, Mia Venner, Bo Westcombe-Evans.