Transfer News: England captain confirms shock move to Sale Sharks

Monday, 25 May 2026 at 18:45

byRugby Rucker

Sale Sharks Women have pulled off one of the biggest signings in Premiership Women’s Rugby after agreeing a deal to bring England World Cup-winning captain Zoe Stratford to the club from the start of the 2026/27 season.

⭐ Save us to your Google Favourites for nonstop RUCK content!

The 29-year-old has won 69 caps for England since her debut in 2016 and led the Red Roses to World Cup glory against Canada at a sold-out Allianz Stadium in September.

A former World Player of the Year, Stratford has also helped Gloucester-Hartpury win three consecutive PWR titles and will reunite with England teammate Tatyana Heard at Sale.

Born in Scarborough, Stratford began her rugby journey at Scarborough RUFC before spells with West Park Leeds, Hartpury College and Darlington Mowden Park, eventually establishing herself as one of the leading players in the women’s game.

Earlier this year, Zoe and her husband Luke – part of the Sharks Women coaching set-up – announced they were expecting their first child, ruling her out of the current Women’s Six Nations.

Speaking about the move north, Stratford said: “I feel ready to take the next step in my career and, being pregnant, I really want to bring my child up as a Northerner.

“It’s been brilliant to see how much investment Sale have put into the women’s team and it’s something I can’t wait to be a part of.”

Sharks head coach Tom Hudson added: “It is a real statement of intent from us as a club that Zoe wants to join us while she is still in the prime of her career.”

FOUR England Six Nations Stars Step Away After Pregnancy News

Here’s everything you need to know about the England players embracing life beyond the pitch.

? Zoe Aldcroft & Luke Stratford – Rugby Royalty

England captain Zoe Aldcroft is among the biggest names to share the joyous news. A dominant force in the Red Roses pack, Aldcroft is now preparing for motherhood alongside her husband, Luke Stratford.

The pair are one of rugby’s most admired power couples, with their relationship deeply rooted in the English game.

Key Details

? Married: June 2024

? Wedding Venue: Hackness Grange, Scarborough

? Luke Stratford’s Rugby Background:
- Coach at Hartpury University
- Former Leicester Tigers Women’s coach
- Scrum coach at Sale Sharks Women

With both partners heavily involved in rugby, their journey into parenthood is another milestone in a shared life shaped by the sport.

? Abbie Ward & Dave Ward – The Ultimate Rugby Partnership

Few stories in women’s rugby are as inspiring as that of Abbie Ward and her husband Dave Ward. Abbie has already demonstrated that elite performance and motherhood can go hand in hand, returning to top-level rugby after welcoming her first child.

Key Details

? Married: August 2020

? Dave Ward’s Rugby Career:
- Former professional player for Harlequins, Bath, and Sale Sharks
- Ex–Bristol Bears Women head coach
- Renowned forward and set-piece specialist

The couple continue to be celebrated as one of rugby’s true “power partnerships,” inspiring athletes across the sport.

? Rosie Galligan & Marlie Packer – Teammates Turned Life Partners

England teammates Rosie Galligan and Marlie Packer have become one of the most talked-about couples in the women’s game.

Both integral to England’s World Cup success, their relationship has resonated strongly with fans.

As they look ahead to the next chapter together, the pair embody the unity and strength that define the Red Roses both on and off the field.

? Lark Atkin-Davies & Jamie Atkins – A Private Love Story

Hooker Lark Atkin-Davies has long been a cornerstone of England’s forward pack, known for her relentless work rate and consistency.

While she has traditionally kept her personal life out of the spotlight, it is now confirmed that she is married to Jamie Atkins, with the couple having been together for over a decade.

The pair are now embarking on an exciting new chapter as they start a family together.

Key Details