Abbie Ward Leads Motherhood Shift for England Rugby
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- Abbie Ward became the first contracted England woman to have a baby and return to international rugby, scoring in the 2025 World Cup final.
- Lark Atkin‑Davies announced her pregnancy after seeing Ward's comeback, aiming to follow her path and return to elite play.
- Rugby Football Union updated its maternity policy in February 2023, offering 26 weeks fully paid leave, travel/accommodation support for newborns, and a support person at camps and matches.
- Zoe Stratford and Rosie Galligan also announced pregnancies in 2024, highlighting a broader acceptance of motherhood among England's World players.
- England players can train in specialised programmes throughout pregnancy, with gym access and medical guidance to maintain performance levels.
Why it matters: RFU's 2023 maternity policy gives England women players 26 weeks paid leave, allowing returns to elite competition within a year.
