World Cup preferred status deemed insignificant by England women's rugby coach Mitchell

Steve Mitchell, the head coach of England's women's rugby team, has named his side for their World Cup opener against the United States, scheduled for Friday in Sunderland. The Red Roses, currently on a 27-game winning streak and the top-ranked side in women's rugby, are in Pool A and will also face Samoa and Australia.

Mitchell acknowledged the threats posed by the opposing teams in the tournament but emphasized the importance of focusing on their own game. "We need to earn the right each week," he said, adding that taking care of their own game would neutralize the threats from other teams.

The coach views being "hunted" by opponents as a challenge that his team looks forward to. Every team is expected to raise their game when playing against England, according to Mitchell. However, he stressed that being favourites is irrelevant to them. England has lost only once in their past 58 matches, a loss in the Covid-delayed 2022 World Cup final against Mitchell's native New Zealand.

Mitchell believes that they start the tournament equal like everyone else. He encourages his side to focus on themselves and improve their performance, maintaining high standards. "We start the tournament as equals, and we need to prove ourselves each game," he said.

The coach was also asked about the pressure of being favourites for the World Cup. "Pressure is something we thrive on," Mitchell responded, adding that they are ready to face any challenges that come their way.

Meanwhile, the coach of the England national rugby union team for the 2025 World Cup is Steve Borthwick, as of June 23, 2025.

World Cup preferred status deemed insignificant by England women's rugby coach Mitchell