Talking Rugby — 29 June 2026
SARACENS CLAIM PWR TITLE IN DOMINANT FINAL DISPLAY
Saracens were crowned Premiership Women's Rugby champions on Sunday afternoon after a commanding 52-14 victory over Trailfinders at Twickenham Stoop.
It was a final that never quite lived up to its billing as a contest. Saracens were 33-0 ahead at the break and the result was beyond doubt long before the final whistle. Julia Omokhuale was named player of the match after opening the scoring early in the first half, with Sophie de Goede and Olivia Apps both outstanding throughout. Maya Montiel gave Trailfinders something to cheer with a try early in the second half, but Saracens had the title long before then.
It was a performance that underlined why Saracens have been the benchmark of the women's club game — and a reminder of what Trailfinders, in only their second final appearance, are still building towards.
RFU CONFIRMS LANDMARK CONTRACT FRAMEWORK FOR RED ROSES THROUGH TO 2030
The RFU has confirmed a new four-year contract framework with the Red Roses covering the 2026-2030 World Cup cycle — and the headline numbers are significant. A guaranteed minimum of 32 full-time professional contracts, a 25% uplift in salaries and match fees, a Rugby World Cup selection bonus, and a mid-cycle review tied to commercial performance. Reports suggest top players could earn up to £100,000 if England retain the World Cup title.
The framework sits alongside the RFU's existing £24 million commitment to Premiership Women's Rugby over ten years — described as the largest governing body investment in a domestic women's competition anywhere in the world.
Captain Meg Jones welcomed the agreement, pointing to the importance of continued investment in both the squad and the pathways beneath it.
The numbers are genuinely impressive — and the direction of travel is right. The challenge now is making sure growth at the top continues to strengthen the clubs, volunteers and communities that underpin the women's game. Elite success creates visibility. Visibility only becomes legacy if it reaches the grassroots.