England's women prepare to defend Six Nations title against Italy

In the lead-up to the Women’s Six Nations championship, England’s women's rugby team, known as the Red Roses, is focused on defending their title as they prepare for a home World Cup later this year. The team is set to kick off their campaign against Italy in York on March 23, 2025. Head coach John Mitchell emphasized the importance of the Six Nations tournament, stating that while the excitement for the World Cup is palpable, the immediate objective is to secure another Six Nations title. England has successfully claimed the championship for the last six editions, highlighting their dominance in women’s rugby. Mitchell appointed lock Zoe Aldcroft as the new captain, illustrating a strategic leadership decision that may influence the team's performance. The preparations include considerations of player availability, with selections from clubs involved in the Premiership Women’s Rugby final being taken into account. Despite the tight turnaround for some players, the focus remains on building cohesion and fostering connections within the squad. As England heads into this tournament, expectations are high, especially with the team’s recent improvement and the pride of representing the nation at home in a global event later this year. The clash against Italy will serve not only as a crucial match for the Six Nations title but also as a vital step towards greater alignment ahead of the World Cup. This combination of tournament focus and future strategies underscores the Red Roses’ commitment to expanding their fanbase and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.