'I'm proud to be part of the journey': Scarratt signs on for more as Red Roses assistant

Two-time Women’s Rugby World Cup winner Emily Scarratt has joined John Mitchell’s Red Roses coaching staff on a full-time basis.

Scarratt, 36, led England’s attack on an interim basis at the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations and helped the team to a fifth Grand Slam in a row in May. Across this year’s Women’s Six Nations, England scored 283 points – 27 more than their total the previous year.

The former 119-cap international has signed on as attack coach for the entirety of the next Women’s Rugby World Cup cycle.

The Red Roses’ next fixtures will come in the WXV Global Series, when they host Australia, Canada and New Zealand in September, prior to two Tests against Canada and one against the USA Women’s Eagles on the road in October.

Scarratt said: “The Six Nations was challenging but hugely rewarding in equal measure. 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. It’s been a real privilege to work with such a talented group of players and staff, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we can continue to develop our attack.

“We have a fantastic pool of players who are eager to keep improving and express themselves on the pitch. 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.”

Scarratt’s appointment as England’s attack coach means that the 36-year-old’s eight year association with Loughborough Lightning has come to an end. Seven of those years were as a player, in which time she made 53 appearances in African Violet and registered 305 points.

For the 2025/26 Premiership Women’s Rugby season, Scarratt was appointed as an assistant coach by Nathan Smith at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, while also coaching England at last year’s Women’s Six Nations.

John Mitchell, England Red Roses head coach, said: “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.

“She leads by example and has a deep understanding of what it means to represent the Red Roses; she is someone who adds immense value to everyone around her. Emily has a brilliant coaching brain and cares deeply about evolving our game. We’re excited to see her continue to develop as a coach and help drive the team forward.”