Red Roses: Meg Jones takes over as England captain in Zoe Stratford’s absence

Jones will have the experienced duo of hooker Amy Cockayne and number eight Alex Matthews as her deputies.

England begin their defense of the Women’s Six Nations title against Ireland on April 11.

Jones was born and raised in Cardiff, but moved across the border to England as a teenager and qualified for the Red Roses through her English mother.

She made her England debut as an 18-year-old in a 26-7 defeat to New Zealand in July 2015. She also starred in Sevens, traveled to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro with Great Britain and then played in Paris 2024.

When her contract with Sevens was canceled in 2020 as part of coronavirus cost-cutting measures, Jones worked as a delivery driver to make ends meet. Jones’ parents died within four months of each other in 2024, and she has spoken about playing through grief.

She started 12 of England’s 13 matches last year, only missing the 38-5 win over Italy in March.

“Meg reflects our values,” Mitchell said.

“Her character, abilities and leadership are invaluable to the Red Roses.

“She brings an infectious energy that lifts those around her and has had a huge impact on our culture and relationships over the past three years.

“Not only is Meg highly respected, but she also consistently delivers high-level performances and leads by example every time she takes the field.”

England have won the last seven Women’s Nations and are on a run of 33 successive victories – dating back to defeat in the 2022 Rugby World Cup final.