Full Breakdown
Shaun Edwards Joins England Women’s Red Roses Ahead of New Zealand Test
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Former Wales and France defence coach Shaun Edwards has been appointed as a short-term coaching consultant for the England women’s rugby team (the Red Roses). The 59-year-old will work with head coach John Mitchell and the coaching group from the start of the week until the end of the 2026 WXV Global Series, which concludes with a match against the United States in New Jersey on October 30. His first assignment is the home Test against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on September 26.
Background & Context
Edwards’ résumé includes four Men’s Six Nations titles with Wales, three with France (including a Grand Slam in 2022), and domestic success with Wasps. He left his six-and-a-half-year role with France in the summer after a restructuring by Fabien Galthié. The Red Roses entered the current WXV campaign as world champions but saw their 39-match home-soil winning streak halted by a 26-26 draw with Canada at Sandy Park, ending a run that had begun in 2022.
Data & Statistics
- Six Nations titles won as a coach: 7 (four with Wales, three with France).
- Red Roses home winning streak before Canada draw: 39 matches (ended 2026).
- Score of the Canada draw: 26-26.
- Projected attendance for the New Zealand Test: over 50,000 spectators at Allianz Stadium.
- Upcoming WXV fixtures: New Zealand (Sept 26), Canada (two matches in Toronto and Ottawa), United States (Oct 30).
Official Statements & Responses
John Mitchell described Edwards’ arrival as a “privilege” and highlighted mutual respect built over years of competing in the international coaching arena.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He told us a little story, telling us why he wanted to be here,” — Marlie Packer, veteran — Marlie Packer, veteran
- “I think probably our biggest question around him coming into the programme was why?” — Jess Breach — Jess Breach
- “We're moving forward in the right direction while building depth in our cover. Now we look forward to renewing a rivalry with a New Zealand side we haven't played since 2024. They are playing good rugby at the moment and it's no surprise to see them raise their standards.” — John Mitchell, head coach — John Mitchell, head coach
- “I'm very giddy about the fact Shaun Edwards is now on a short term role with the Red Roses,” — Haskell — Haskell
Why It Matters
Edwards’ entry marks the first time a coach of his stature has worked within an international women’s programme. His extensive defensive expertise is expected to sharpen the Red Roses ahead of a high-profile clash with the Black Ferns, a match that could influence world rankings and the momentum of the WXV series. The appointment also signals the growing professionalisation of women’s rugby, as top-level talent from the men’s game increasingly engages with the women’s side.
What’s Next
- September 26: England vs New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, London.
- Late September–early October: Two Tests against Canada in Toronto and Ottawa.
- October 30: Final WXV match versus the United States in New Jersey.
These fixtures will determine whether the Red Roses can restore the dominance suggested by their pre-Canada record and assess the impact of Edwards’ consultancy before the series concludes.