England Names Jones as Captain for 2026 Women's Six Nations

England head coach John Mitchell has named a 38-player squad for the 2026 Guinness Women's Six Nations, appointing centre Megan Jones as captain in place of Zoe Stratford, who is expecting her first child. The Red Roses, fresh off their September 2025 Rugby World Cup victory, begin their title defense against Ireland on April 11 at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, where more than 67,000 tickets have already been sold, surpassing the tournament's previous attendance record of 58,498 set in 2023.

Jones, a 29-year-old Trailfinders Women player with 33 caps, steps up from her vice-captaincy role during the World Cup campaign. Born in Cardiff and a two-time Olympian with Team GB, she started 12 of England's 13 matches last year, contributing to both the Six Nations Grand Slam and the World Cup triumph over Canada. She expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, "It's a huge honour to have been named captain of the Red Roses. Mitch and I have built a strong relationship over the past three years, and it's a great feeling to have his trust to lead the group along with a tight leadership team. I'm buzzing to get back in camp with the girls for the Six Nations. I'll just be the same old...