Captivating Rugby News: England Red Roses Secure Formidable Roster for 2024-25 Season

London, England – April 20, 2024: The England national rugby union team, the Red Roses, have solidified their squad for the upcoming 2024-25 season, with the addition of two new full-time contracts and several talented players on transition contracts.

Exeter Chiefs flanker Maddie Feaunati and Trailfinders Women prop Liz Crake have both earned coveted full-time England contracts, as confirmed by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) on Monday. Feaunati, who also qualified for New Zealand before committing to the Red Roses, has emerged as a key player for head coach John Mitchell, featuring prominently during England’s Grand Slam-winning Women’s Six Nations 2024 campaign. Crake, on the other hand, has already earned two caps for the national team, showcasing her potential during the 2023 Six Nations.

“The standards continue to go from strength to strength, as evidenced in this year’s Six Nations.”

• Charlie Hayter, Head of Women’s Performance

Alongside the full-time contracts, the RFU has also announced the inclusion of Liz Hanlon, Steph Else, and the Red Roses’ youngest ever Test player, Mia Venner, on transition contracts. These contracts are designed to support aspiring Red Roses in their early professional journey, ensuring they have dedicated time for rugby development.

Head of Women’s Performance, Charlie Hayter, expressed excitement about the competitive nature of the Red Roses squad, stating, “The standards continue to go from strength to strength, as evidenced in this year’s Six Nations.” Hayter emphasized the team’s dedication and commitment to the journey ahead, with a focus on preparing for the upcoming fixtures against France and New Zealand, as well as the 2024 Rugby World Cup.

Red Roses Head Coach, John Mitchell, echoed Hayter’s sentiments, expressing trust in the team’s style of rugby and belief in their ability to take their game to another level. “We are focused and determined to climb again and take our game to another level,” Mitchell said, reflecting on the invaluable lessons learned from their last Test match against France.

The 32-strong Red Roses squad includes a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents, showcasing the depth and breadth of English women’s rugby. With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, the Red Roses will be keen to continue their impressive form and solidify their position as one of the powerhouses in the international rugby union landscape.

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