No panic for England but Mitchell issues PWR warning
The England women's rugby team, the Red Roses, suffered a rare 2-0 series defeat to Canada, ending their long unbeaten streak. Despite the loss, the team remains focused on future development as they look toward the 2029 World Cup.
Why it matters
The defeat marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of women's international rugby, signaling that the previously dominant England team is facing increased pressure from rising rivals.
Figure caption, Back-to-back losses for Red Roses against Canada
Before England's three-match series against Canada, few would have predicted this outcome.
A 2-0 series defeat for the Red Roses; their record 39-match winning streak and 41-match unbeaten run – stretching back nearly four years – ended; and consecutive losses for the first time since 2016.
Over the past 13 months, Canada have turned a 33-13 defeat in the World Cup final into a statement 31-22 win in Ottawa. And three years out from the 2029 World Cup, they have laid down an early marker of their title credentials.
More than that, they have proved England are not invincible – a reality which should hearten New Zealand and perennial Women's Six Nations bridesmaids France because both have beaten giant-killers Canada in the past 12 months.
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