England’s Red Roses squad, including several players from South West clubs, has departed for North America to compete in the WXV Global Series. The tour will see John Mitchell’s side face Canada twice and the USA in three crucial Test matches throughout October.
Red Roses Embark on WXV Global Series North American Tour
The Red Roses set off from London Heathrow with British Airways for Toronto, Canada, on Thursday, ahead of their first fixture against the world number two side. The initial clash with Canada will take place on Friday 16 October, with a kick-off time of midnight on Saturday 17 October in the UK due to the time difference, as reported by the Rugby Football Union. A second encounter with Canada is scheduled for the following week in Ottawa, before the tour concludes with a match against the USA in New Jersey on 30 October (21:15 BST).
These matches follow a challenging series of home fixtures in September, where England defeated Australia and New Zealand but drew with Canada, ending their record-breaking winning streak. Head coach John Mitchell described the previous Tests against Canada and the Black Ferns as “humdingers that could have gone either way,” according to BBC Sport. He emphasised the importance of playing away from home: “The 32 players travelling to North America have a great opportunity to elevate our connections as a squad because playing away from home requires togetherness.”
Key South West Talent in Red Roses Squad
The Red Roses squad features significant representation from clubs across the South West, highlighting the region’s contribution to national rugby. From Sale Sharks’ announcement, Bristol Bears are represented by Christiana Balogun (1 cap), Sarah Bern (87 caps), Hannah Botterman (65 caps), Demelza Short (4 caps), and Ellie Kildunne (65 caps). Exeter Chiefs contribute Maddie Feaunati (30 caps), Claudia Moloney-MacDonald (43 caps), and Flo Robinson (6 caps) to the 32-player squad.
Gloucester-Hartpury also sees a strong contingent, including Mackenzie Carson (31 caps), Alex Matthews (84 caps, vice-captain), Maud Muir (56 caps), Natasha Hunt (91 caps), Megan Jones (41 caps), Emma Sing (17 caps), and Mia Venner (5 caps). Megan Jones has been named captain for the tour, with Alex Matthews and Amy Cokayne (Sale Sharks) serving as vice-captains.
Squad Changes and Coach Expectations
Two-time World Cup winner Marlie Packer, a Harlequins back-rower and England’s most capped active player with 119 caps, will not travel to North America. She remains in the UK as her partner and Red Roses team-mate Rosie Galligan is due to give birth. Injuries also mean Delaney Burns, Haidee Head, and Sophie McQueen will miss the tour. However, the squad is boosted by the return of Saracens prop Kelsey Clifford from a hamstring injury.
John Mitchell’s expectations for the squad are clear: “We have shown a real hunger to compete and improve, and we’re excited to rip into our preparations and continue our rivalry with Canada in Toronto.”
Implications for Bristol and South West Rugby
The strong presence of players from Bristol Bears, Exeter Chiefs, and Gloucester-Hartpury in the Red Roses squad for the WXV Global Series underscores the talent development within the South West region. Their performance on the international stage will be keenly watched by local fans, showcasing the strength of rugby in the area and inspiring the next generation of players.
