Meg Jones Named England Captain as Zoe Stratford Steps Back for Pregnancy

Meg Jones Takes the Helm of the Red Roses

England women's rugby has a new captain for 2026. Centre Meg Jones has been appointed to lead the Red Roses after Zoe Stratford — the skipper who guided England to Rugby World Cup glory in September — revealed she is pregnant with her first child, due in September.

The 29-year-old Jones is widely regarded as one of England's most influential players. Her performances during England's triumphant World Cup campaign earned her a nomination for the World Rugby Player of the Year award, underlining her status as one of the finest centres in the global game.

A Natural Choice for Leadership

Jones is no stranger to responsibility within the England setup. She served as one of Stratford's vice-captains alongside back row Marlie Packer throughout 2025 and has accumulated 33 Test caps during her international career.

England's official announcement confirmed the appointment covers the 2026 season. Jones will be supported in her leadership role by two experienced campaigners — hooker Amy Cokayne and number eight Alex Matthews — who have been named as her vice-captains.

Reacting to her appointment, Jones expressed both personal warmth and professional excitement.

"Firstly, I'm really excited for Zoe and wish her and Strats every happiness on their news," she said. "It's a huge honour to have been named captain of the Red Roses. Mitch and I have built a strong relationship over the past three years, and it's a great feeling to have his trust to lead the group alongside a tight leadership team. I'm buzzing to get back in camp with the girls for the Six Nations."

A Journey Defined by Resilience

Jones' path to the captaincy is one of remarkable perseverance. Born and raised in Cardiff, she crossed the border as a teenager and qualifies for England through her English mother. She made her international debut as an 18-year-old fly-half in July 2015, featuring in a 26-7 defeat to New Zealand.

Her career has spanned both the XV and Sevens formats. She travelled to the 2016 Rio Olympics with Great Britain and appeared again at Paris 2024, demonstrating her versatility and longevity at the elite level.

When her Sevens contract was cut in 2020 amid Covid-related financial pressures, Jones worked as a delivery driver to support herself — a testament to her dedication to the sport. More recently, she faced profound personal tragedy when both of her parents passed away within four months of each other in 2024. She continued to play through her grief, earning widespread admiration within the rugby community.

Her commitment was reflected in her availability last season, where she started 12 of England's 13 matches.

Mitchell Full of Praise for New Captain

Head coach John Mitchell voiced his strong confidence in Jones as the right person to carry the Red Roses forward.

"Meg reflects our values," Mitchell said. "Her personality, capabilities and leadership are hugely valuable to the Red Roses squad. She brings an infectious energy that lifts those around her and has had a huge influence on our culture and connections over the past three years. Not only is Meg highly respected, but she also consistently produces high-level performances and leads by example every time she takes to the field."

Six Nations Defence Begins in April

England enter the 2026 Women's Six Nations as formidable favourites. The Red Roses have claimed seven consecutive Six Nations titles and are currently riding a stunning streak of 33 successive Test victories — a run that dates back to their defeat in the 2022 Rugby World Cup final.

Jones will lead England in their opening Six Nations fixture against Ireland on 11 April, as the team looks to extend both records under their new captain.