sport news England's Six Nations' triumphs are introducing women's rugby to a whole new ... trends now
They’re one of English sport’s most successful teams and have become synonymous with winning.
But as they look to seal a sixth consecutive Women’s Six Nations title and a third straight Grand Slam in Bordeaux on Saturday, this is the Red Roses as you’ve never seen them before.
Only France stand between John Mitchell’s side and another Championship clean sweep, but the reality is England should have too much for Les Bleus.
The Red Roses are thriving on the field. Off it, they are determined to use their growing platform to raise interest in and develop the female game ahead of England hosting the 2025 Women’s World Cup.
Ahead of this Six Nations, England’s players took part in a lifestyle photoshoot with the aim of taking women’s rugby to new audiences. They are certainly doing that.
Ellie Kildunne and the Red Roses are aiming to introduce a new audience to women's rugby
Centre Tatyana Heard is one of a number of England players to take part in the lifestyle shoot
Marlie Packer has featured for her country since starting her international career in 2008
‘I’m very creative off the pitch and I hope that shows on it. I try and find happiness in everything I’m doing,’ said superstar full-back Ellie Kildunne, who sums up the growing force that is women’s rugby.
‘I think it marries really well. We’ve become a team that’s undefendable.’
At 24, Kildunne has declared it her ambition to become the best rugby player – male or female – in the world.
She is on her way and has a remarkable nine tries in just four Six Nations games this year.
As shown by her modelling pictures in Mail Sport, Kildunne is not just a one-trick pony. Away from rugby she likes photography and has launched her own fashion range with sports brand Canterbury.
‘It’s going well and I’m enjoying it. I don’t want the Six Nations to be over,’ Kildunne said. ‘We’ve become a team that’s got multi threats. We’re strong in different ways.
‘I’m not putting too much pressure on myself. I’m enjoying it and have a smile on my face. I’m content with who I am and the people around me. I just want to keep going and ride the wave.’
Women’s rugby remains the sport’s biggest area for potential growth.
England’s dominance of the Six Nations isn’t good for the competitiveness of the Championship, but it
