Shaun Edwards joins England Women coaching staff — SkimNews
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- Shaun Edwards has joined the England Women coaching team as a consultant until the end of the WXV Global Series, the Rugby Football Union announced Monday September 21, 2026.
- Edwards was sacked as France's defence coach earlier in 2026, three months after guiding Les Bleus to a Six Nations title — head coach Fabien Galthie said in June he wanted a back-room shake-up after Edwards had been in post since 2020.
- The Red Roses' 39-Test winning streak ended Saturday with a 26-26 draw against Canada in Exeter, ahead of this Saturday's New Zealand fixture at Allianz Stadium (Twickenham).
- Edwards told the Daily Mail the Six Nations is "my tournament" and that he'd be "cheesed off" if not involved next year — the article notes the short-term deal "clears Edwards to be involved in the men's Six Nations," with his stated ambition to link up with a side in time for the competition.
- This is the 59-year-old's fourth coaching role in a 25-year career, joining Wasps, Wales, and France on his CV after a standout stint as Great Britain rugby league captain.
- John Mitchell said defence coach Sarah Hunter is "relishing" the chance to learn from Edwards, and that Edwards sees joining the Red Roses as "a privilege."
Why it matters: Edwards told the Daily Mail the Six Nations is 'my tournament' and that he'd be 'cheesed off' if not coaching it next year. The short-term Red Roses deal keeps the three-time Six Nations-winning coach active through October 30, while he pursues a return to the men's competition he dominated with France — but no indication yet that he will join England men's setup, where Richard Wigglesworth currently oversees defence.
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