Zoe Aldcroft has been installed as England women’s captain for 2025, taking over from Marlie Packer, and is set to lead John Mitchell’s side into the World Cup this year.

Aldcroft, who was named World Rugby’s women’s player of the year in 2021, has undertaken the role on a number of previous occasions including the emphatic victories over Scotland and Wales in the 2024 Six Nations but has been appointed on a permanent basis. The Gloucester-Hartpury forward will be supported by Packer and Megan Jones, who have been named as vice-captains.

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“Zoe is a phenomenal rugby player who consistently performs to a high standard in the [Premiership] and at international level,” said Mitchell. “She leads by example through her world-class actions, on and off the field, and is an integral member of our leadership group. The values it takes to be a high-performing Red Rose are ingrained in her character and she is highly respected within the squad. We believe Zoe will thrive in the role.

“Marlie is an incredible person and an inspiring leader, whose contributions as captain to our culture and leadership have been invaluable. She will continue to play a significant role in helping us raise our performance levels in 2025.

“As with many positions, there is intense competition for places in the back row and Marlie’s ability to deliver big performances on the pitch needs to be her focus.

“I’ve outlined as a challenge for her, one that I know she’ll take on with everything she has. Making decisions like this is never easy, but I believe it will push us to perform at our best and ultimately benefit the Red Roses.”

England have won the last six Six Nations championships and begin the defence of their title against Italy on 23 March. They will bid for World Cup glory on home soil later this year when the tournament gets under way with England hosting USA in Sunderland on 22 August.

Aldcroft said: “It’s an incredible honour to be awarded the Red Roses captaincy. I feel privileged to have the trust of John Mitchell and the coaching staff. To be able to follow in Marlie’s footsteps means a lot to me. I am extremely grateful for the knowledge and advice she has shared with me over the years, and I know I will be well supported by her, Meg and our whole leadership group.”