England’s Red Roses have cemented their status as the world’s premier women’s rugby force, with six players selected for World Rugby’s Women’s Team of the Year. The squad features front-row powerhouse Hannah Botterman, hooker Amy Cokayne, and flanker Maddie Feaunati, alongside backs Zoe Harrison, Megan Jones, and Jess Breach. No other nation has secured more spots in the prestigious XV, highlighting England’s sustained dominance in international competition.
Red Roses dominate global honors as Canada ends historic 39-match winning streak
The selection underscores a remarkable season for the Red Roses, who extended their historic winning streak to 39 matches before a 26-26 draw with Canada in Exeter in September. That encounter marked the end of an era for the team, which had previously defeated France 43-28 in the Six Nations title decider in Bordeaux. While the streak has snapped, the individual accolades confirm that England’s core remains the benchmark for excellence in women’s rugby globally.
The global fan vote also recognized France’s Pauline Bourdon Sansus, who won the Try of the Year award for her decisive effort against England in the May Six Nations final. As the Red Roses prepare to defend their title, they enter the 2027 campaign with the momentum of nine consecutive Women’s Six Nations titles. With New Zealand contributing five players and Canada three to the Team of the Year, the competitive landscape remains tight, but England’s depth and quality remain unmatched.
Source: Sky Sports
