Shaun Edwards has commenced a short-term coaching consultancy role with the England women's rugby team, known as the Red Roses. The 59-year-old is expected to work alongside current Red Roses defence coach Sarah Hunter for the remaining WXV Global Series matches, beginning with the game against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium this Saturday.
This appointment follows England's 39-Test winning streak concluding with a 26-26 draw against Canada last weekend. Edwards, an Englishman, has a distinguished coaching career in rugby union, including winning three Six Nations titles as France men's defence coach, a role he recently left. He has not previously coached England's men or women's teams.
England head coach John Mitchell commented on the appointment, stating that Edwards had expressed interest in working in an international women's set-up for the first time after his tenure with France ended. Mitchell added that Edwards holds significant respect for the Red Roses and views joining the environment as a privilege. Sarah Hunter is reportedly looking forward to learning from Edwards.