Red Roses announce 47-player training squad ahead of Six Nations

Head coach John Mitchell has selected a 47-player training squad to begin the build-up, underlining his intention to develop and refresh the group ahead of their Championship opener against Ireland on Saturday 11 April.

The squad blends experience with opportunity. Established leaders such as captain Marlie Packer (112 caps), alongside World Cup winners Ellie Kildunne and Alex Matthews, remain central figures, but this camp also marks the introduction of a new generation.

Several uncapped players have been included, including Trailfinders Women’s Jasmine Adonri and Bristol Bears’ Millie David, as the coaching staff look to “reset the culture” for the next four-year cycle.

The Red Roses are also beginning a new chapter without iconic figures Abby Dow and Emily Scarratt, who both retired following last year’s World Cup.

“2025 was a memorable year for everyone involved with the Red Roses, and one that will go down in history for rugby in this country,” Mitchell said. “As we enter a new cycle, this camp will focus on aligning our communication and resetting our culture to win.

“It is natural for a rugby cycle to go through regeneration which presents exciting opportunities for young players over the next four years. The quicker they can adapt and contribute to the environment will enhance their opportunities.”

England will begin their 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations campaign in spectacular style, welcoming Ireland to Allianz Stadium for the opening round.

Demand for the fixture is already soaring, with more than 50,000 tickets sold. The match promises a celebratory return for the world champions, while providing a significant early test against an Ireland side eager to make a statement.

Mitchell highlighted the growing momentum around the tournament: “It is awesome to learn how many supporters have already committed to watching the Red Roses at Allianz Stadium and Ashton Gate in the upcoming Guinness Women's Six Nations."

Forwards: Lark Atkin-Davies, Maisy Allen, Jasmine Adonri, Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Abi Burton, May Campbell, Mackenzie Carson, Kelsey Clifford, Amy Cokayne, Steph Else, Maddie Feaunati, Keevy Fitzpatrick, Rosie Galligan, Lizzie Hanlon, Haidee Head, Lilli Ives Campion, Hayley Jones, Sadia Kabeya, Haineala Lutui, Alex Matthews, Annabel Meta, Maud Muir, Marlie Packer, Connie Powell, Zoe Stratford, Morwenna Talling, Abbie Ward, Nicole Wythe.

Backs: Holly Aitchison, Jess Breach, Millie David, Zoe Harrison, Tatyana Heard, Sophie Hopkins, Natasha Hunt, Megan Jones, Ellie Kildunne, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, Lucy Packer, Sarah Parry, Flo Robinson, Helena Rowland, Jade Shekells, Emma Sing, Mia Venner, Ella Wyrwas.