England's impressive 39-match winning run has come to an end following a gripping 26-26 draw with Canada at Sandy Park. The Red Roses, who defeated Canada in last year's World Cup final, were held in a nail-biting encounter in front of a 14,573-strong crowd in Exeter.
Canada are the first side to prevent an England victory since New Zealand's triumph in the 2022 World Cup final. This result means John Mitchell's England team is now unbeaten in 40 Tests, though their winning streak has concluded.
The draw also marks the end of England's flawless home record against Canada, having previously won all 13 of their encounters on home soil. Both teams scored four tries apiece in a frenetic match.
In a pulsating opening 25 minutes, England twice came from behind with tries from Claudia Moloney-MacDonald and Hannah Botterman. Moloney-MacDonald scored her second try in the 32nd minute, giving England their first lead, but Canada's DaLeaka Menin crashed over just before half-time to level the score.
The second half saw both sides exchange tries again, with Bryony Field restoring England's lead before Olivia Apps scored for Canada. Despite England looking most likely to secure a win in the chaotic final 10 minutes, Canada battled through for the draw.