
Sports
Scarratt joins England coaching team permanently
July 22, 2026
Source: BBC Sport · Read on source site
Emily Scarratt won 119 caps and is the only English player - male or female - to play at five Rugby World Cups
>England's record points-scorer Emily Scarratt has committed her long-term future to the Red Roses coaching team.
>The 36-year-old joined John Mitchell's side on an interim basis as the lead attack and backs coach for this year's Women's Six Nations.
>Following England clinching their eighth successive Women's Six Nations title in May, Scarratt returned to her role as assistant coach at Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) side Loughborough Lightning.
>She will now leave her role with Loughborough after joining the Red Roses on a permanent basis.
>"The Six Nations was challenging but hugely rewarding in equal measure," Scarratt said.
>"I'd spent so many years in the Red Roses environment as a player, so stepping into a coaching role in the same setting was a new experience and, at times, slightly unnerving.
>"There was plenty of uncertainty, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity and learned so much already.
>"There's a huge amount of ambition within this team, and I'm proud to be part of the journey as we continue to grow and build towards the future."
>On leaving Loughborough after eight years as a player and coach, the two-time World Cup winner added: "I've been surrounded by incredible people who have challenged and supported me in every way possible.
>"I'd like to say a huge thank you to everyone connected with the club. I'll always look back on my time with immense gratitude. Thank you for everything."
>Former England attack coach Lou Meadows left the set-up after helping England win the Rugby World Cup at a sold-out Allianz Stadium last September.
>Scarratt, who retired from playing after the World Cup win, then helped the Red Roses' attack score 27 more points in 2026 than in the 2025 Women's Six Nations.
>"Emily has already made a significant impact on our environment in a coaching capacity, and during the Six Nations she proved to be a huge asset with the insight, calmness and experience she brings every day," Mitchell added.
>'We need to do a better job' getting women into coaching
>Female coaches make huge difference - Scarratt
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