Abi Burton: England back row to Women’s Rugby Board presidency

England Women’s back row and Trailfinders Abi Burton has been named as chair of an outstanding leadership group of PWR players.

Burton, who was part of the Red Roses side that won the Women’s Rugby World Cup in September, will lead the Women’s Rugby Council set up by the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA).

The 25-year-old’s Rugby World Cup win came three years after she was placed in a coma to treat a serious autoimmune disease attacking her brain.

“I’m really proud to have been elected president of the first Women’s Rugby Board,” Burton said.

“This is an important opportunity to ensure female players’ voices are heard, and I look forward to working with the Board and the RPA to represent players across the women’s game.”

The new separate women’s council will ensure female players are better represented and able to respond to the “specific challenges and opportunities they face,” says the RPA.

Bristol Bears and Wales fullback Jenny Hesketh was elected vice-president with Emily Tuttosi, who started for Canada against England in last year’s World Cup final, named as Exeter Chiefs’ representative.

Women’s Rugby Board representatives for the 2025–26 season

Bristol Bears: Jenny Hesketh (Vice President)

Exeter Heads: Emily Tutusi

Gloucester Hartpury: Sam Monaghan

Clown: Laji Toima

Leicester Tigers: Grace Dean

Loughborough Lightning: Ellis Martin

Selling Sharks: Tish Harper

Muslims: Ella Wirwas

Women Trailfinders: Abi Burton (Chair)