John Mitchell: 'It’s never personal – it became really clear in my own stomach'

England have picked second rows to lead their men and women in a critical year for both teams but John Mitchell views consistency and not position as the key attribute shared by the captains.

A day after Maro Itoje was installed as Steve Borthwick’s skipper for the Six Nations, Zoe Aldcroft spoke for the first time after being placed in charge of the Red Roses for a 2025 that will culminate in a home World Cup.

Mitchell has worked closely with the pair and believes one quality in particular makes them stand out.

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“I wouldn’t categorise position as a coincidence but I would categorise these two special individuals as very consistent performers,” said the Kiwi head coach, an assistant under Eddie Jones from 2018 to 2021.

“That’s why they’re extraordinary at what they do and that’s why they can lead people.

“I love a person who is consistent with their actions. Zoe’s an athlete and a person who takes great pride in being consistent in her actions and she’s the kind of leader we need in front of us.

“I’m not a huge talker, Zoe’s not a huge talker but at the end of the day the best place is your actions. It allows you to communicate effectively.”

Aldcroft has replaced Marlie Packer as England captain, partly as a result of the competition at openside.

Packer has been first choice in the number seven jersey but faces stiff competition from Sadia Kabeya and Georgia Brock. Aldcroft, meanwhile, is among the first names on the team sheet.

“It’s never an easy decision to make a change. You have to respect what Marlie has done for her country and in terms of leadership,” Mitchell said.

“When you have depth, then that person has got to be a certainty on the team sheet. Unfortunately we’ve got to a stage where there’s competition in the seven position, so that’s a difficult decision.

“It’s never personal – I’ve been in this situation a number of times in my life and it’s not something that sits comfortably with you.

“There were a few cups of tea at night and a few late sleeps but at the end of the day it became really clear in my own stomach that it’s the right decision and it’s what the team needs.”

Aldcroft was making her breakfast of scrambled egg on toast when Mitchell called last Thursday to offer her the job of leading the Red Roses for the Six Nations and World Cup.

“It’s an absolute honour and privilege to be able to drive this amazing team to where we want to go,” said Aldcroft, who will have Packer and Megan Jones as vice-captains.

“A massive part of being a captain is leading by example. When I speak, I really mean what I’m saying and I like to think about what I’m saying.

“But it’s also about bringing everyone else around me up and making sure everyone can be themselves and thrive in whatever they’re doing.

“It’s also really great that I’m being supported by such an incredible leadership team that has so many different strengths and together we can really drive this team to something special.”