Shaun Edwards joins England Red Roses as defense consultant

Shaun Edwards has joined the England women’s rugby team, the Red Roses, as a consultant defense coach. The 59-year-old, who recently concluded a six-year tenure with the France men’s national team, will remain with the squad through the end of the WXV Global Series in October.

Edwards’ appointment aims to bolster the team's defensive systems ahead of their match against New Zealand. England head coach John Mitchell praised Edwards’ presence and his proactive approach to integrating with the squad, noting that Edwards made an effort to learn every player's name and understand the team's specific terminology immediately upon arrival.

Players, including winger Jess Breach, have noted Edwards' genuine commitment to the women's game. Edwards shared with the squad that his interest in coaching women's rugby is partly motivated by his late mother, Phyllis, who never had the opportunity to play the sport. He expressed a desire to gain insight into the women's game while helping to improve the team's performance.