Emily Scarratt to break England record at fifth Rugby World Cup for 2025 host nation

Emily Scarratt is ready to become the first England player to compete at five Rugby World Cups after being named in John Mitchell’s 32-player squad for next month’s home tournament.

Scarratt made her World Cup debut in 2010 and won the tournament in 2014 with the Red Roses before featuring for the losing finalists in the next two stagings, held in 2017 and then 2022 after a one-year Covid delay.

The 35-year-old is one of 14 backs and 18 forwards named in Mitchell’s team, which will be captained by Zoe Aldcroft. The Gloucester-Hartpury player led the Red Roses to their sixth Women’s Six Nations title in a row after being named as skipper in January.

Mitchell has not sprung any surprises with his squad and has mixed experience with new talent. There will be eight World Cup debutants, including Emma Sing who started England’s grand slam-winning game against France in April for the injured Ellie Kildunne.

Kildunne, the World Rugby player of the year, is also included, as is the former captain Marlie Packer and the No 8 Alex Matthews, who will both be taking part in their fourth World Cup. England will open the tournament against the USA in Sunderland on 22 August.

“It is a rare and awesome opportunity for this group to represent the Red Roses at a home World Cup,” Mitchell said. “The selection process is never easy. It’s been a thorough two-year process to select the right blend of positional cover, skill, mindset and connection – we believe this is a squad that can win the World Cup.”

Aldcroft added: “To lead the team into a home Rugby World Cup is an incredible feeling. This group have a fantastic opportunity to inspire young boys and girls all over the country – it’s something we have spoken about as a collective and we’re relishing the chance to do so. Pulling on the white shirt is always a massive privilege and we can’t wait to do that, backed by our amazing home support.”