Meg Jones to captain England at Women’s Six Nations with Zoe Stratford pregnant

Meg Jones has been chosen to lead England’s world champions in 2026 after regular Red Roses captain Zoe Stratford announced her pregnancy

Meg Jones has been chosen to lead England’s world champions in 2026 after the regular Red Roses captain, Zoe Stratford, announced her pregnancy on Wednesday.

Jones, who was vice-captain when England beat Canada to lift the World Cup last September, will take over from Stratford for the upcoming Women’s Six Nations. England kick off their campaign against Ireland on 11 April at Twickenham when a tournament-record crowd of more than 60,000 will be in the stands.

The 29-year-old centre said: “Firstly, I’m really excited for Zoe and wish her and Strats [Luke, Zoe’s husband] every happiness on their news. It’s a huge honour to have been named captain of the Red Roses. Mitch [coach John Mitchell] and I have built a strong relationship over the past three years and it’s a great feeling to have his trust to lead the group along with a tight leadership team.”

Jones will be supported by vice-captains Amy Cokayne and Alex Matthews. Marlie Packer was a vice-captain last year but has not been retained in that role. Jones, who has 33 caps for England, earned a World Rugby Player of the Year nomination last year.

On Friday, England named seven uncapped players in a 38-strong squad for the Six Nations.

The squad is brimming with experience, with Mitchell having selected 25 players who won the World Cup last year, including his new captain.

However, he has also brought in seven who will be looking to make their debut in the tournament – Christiana Balogun, Millie David, Haineala Lutui, Annabel Meta, Sarah Parry, Demelza Short and Jodie Verghese.

Mitchell said: “It’s great to be back together, ready to earn the right again following the Rugby World Cup. “The impact of the tournament across the country has been outstanding, and it’s reflected in the incredible ticket sales - not just for our matches at Allianz Stadium and Ashton Gate, but across the Six Nations as a whole.

“As Red Roses, what comes next is a fresh start. The Six Nations is hugely important to us, and we know success in this competition has to be earned every time.

“We’re excited by the energy the younger players will bring into the squad, and alongside our experienced players.”