Shaun Edwards Joins Red Roses Coaching Set-Up

The former Wales and France defence coach has joined England as a consultant for the remainder of the WXV Global Series, bringing his international experience to the women’s game for the first time.

Sean Edwards has joined the Red Roses coaching set-up as a consultant for the remainder of the WXV Global Series.

It is Edwards’ first coaching role in international women’s rugby. The 59-year-old has previously worked extensively at the highest level of the men’s game, most recently as France’s defence coach, having also spent a decade with Wales. He left the French set-up in June after more than six years.

Edwards is already working with England ahead of Saturday’s meeting with New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. He will remain with the squad through the rest of the WXV Global Series, which also includes fixtures against Canada and the USA.

For Red Roses head coach John Mitchell, the appointment adds another experienced voice to an established coaching group. Mitchell said Edwards had expressed an interest in working in an international women’s set-up and described his coaching credentials as exceptional. England defence coach Sarah Hunter is also expected to benefit from the opportunity to work alongside him.

The timing is interesting. Edwards arrives just days after England’s remarkable winning run came to an end, with Canada holding the Red Roses to a 26–26 draw at Sandy Park on 19 September. England remain unbeaten in 40 Tests, but the result ended a run of 39 consecutive victories.

Now Edwards gets his first opportunity to work inside the women’s international game — and his first challenge comes against New Zealand, the team that beat England in the 2022 World Cup final.

It is a new environment for Edwards, and a new voice for the Red Roses. What he brings to the group — and what he takes from the women’s game — will be worth watching.