Emily Scarratt Joins England Coaching Team Permanently

New Delhi, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: 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. Her appointment was part of a broader strategy to enhance the team's performance and maintain its competitive edge in international women's . The Women’s Six Nations is a key tournament that showcases the top talent in women’s and serves as an important platform for teams to gauge their readiness for global competitions.

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 (PWR) side Loughborough Lightning. This transition back to Loughborough was seen as a temporary measure, as the coaching staff evaluated the long-term direction of the Red Roses program. The Red Roses have a storied history in women’s , and maintaining a competitive edge requires not only talent on the field but also strategic leadership off it.

Now, Scarratt will leave her role with Loughborough after joining the Red Roses on a permanent basis, marking a significant shift in her career from player to coach. Her decision reflects a commitment not only to her personal development but also to the future of women's in England. The transition from player to coach is often filled with challenges, as individuals must adapt to new roles that focus on leadership, strategy, and mentorship rather than personal performance.

"The Six Nations was challenging but hugely rewarding in equal measure," Scarratt said, reflecting on her experiences during the tournament. "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." This sense of unease is common among athletes transitioning to coaching roles, as they must adapt to a different set of responsibilities and expectations. Scarratt's candid acknowledgment of her feelings emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support systems for new coaches, especially in high-stakes environments like international .

"There was plenty of uncertainty, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity and learned so much already," she added. This learning process is crucial, as coaching requires not only an understanding of the game but also the ability to communicate effectively with players, develop strategies, and foster team dynamics. Effective communication is particularly vital in a like , where split-second decisions can impact the outcome of a match.

Scarratt's commitment to the Red Roses comes at a pivotal time for the team. Following their success in the Six Nations, there is a palpable sense of ambition within the squad, which Scarratt is eager to be a part of. "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," she stated, highlighting her dedication to the team's long-term goals. This ambition aligns with the growing popularity of women's , which has seen increased investment and support from various stakeholders, including national governing bodies and sponsors.

On leaving Loughborough after eight years as a player and coach, the two-time World Cup winner expressed her gratitude: "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." This farewell underscores the deep connections athletes form with their clubs and the emotional weight of such transitions in their careers. Such sentiments are often shared among athletes as they move through different phases of their professional lives, reflecting the importance of community and support in s.

Scarratt's move to the Red Roses is particularly significant given the recent changes in the coaching staff. Former England attack coach Lou Meadows left the set-up after helping England win the World Cup at a sold-out Allianz Stadium last September. Meadows' departure marked the end of an era for the team, as she played a crucial role in developing the attacking strategies that led to their success. Scarratt's appointment can be seen as a continuity measure, ensuring that the team's attacking identity remains strong. This continuity is vital for maintaining team cohesion and performance levels, especially as the team prepares for future international competitions.

Scarratt's impact on the Red Roses was evident during her interim role, where she helped the team's attack score 27 more points in 2026 than in the 2025 Women's Six Nations. This improvement speaks volumes about her ability to analyze and enhance team performance. Her experience as a player allows her to bring valuable insights into the coaching environment, which can help shape the next generation of players. As a record points-scorer, she possesses a unique understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the .

John Mitchell, the head coach of the Red Roses, commented on Scarratt's contributions: "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's endorsement highlights the trust and respect Scarratt has earned in her new role, reinforcing the idea that her transition from player to coach is not only beneficial for her but also for the team as a whole. The support from Mitchell and the coaching staff is crucial for Scarratt as she continues to develop her coaching style and philosophy.

As women's continues to grow in popularity and visibility, the role of coaches like Scarratt becomes increasingly important. The investment in female coaches is essential for the development of the , as it encourages more women to pursue coaching careers and helps to create a more inclusive environment within . Scarratt's journey from a record-setting player to a pivotal coaching figure serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes and coaches. Her presence in a leadership role can help pave the way for future generations of female coaches, contributing to a more balanced representation within the .

Looking ahead, Scarratt's permanent position with the Red Roses suggests a commitment to building a sustainable coaching framework that can support the team's ambitions on the world stage. As the team prepares for future competitions, including the next World Cup cycle, her expertise and leadership will be critical in shaping the team's strategy and performance. The upcoming years will be crucial for the Red Roses as they aim to build upon their recent successes and continue to elevate the profile of women's in England and beyond.

In conclusion, Emily Scarratt's permanent appointment to the England coaching team represents a significant development in the landscape of women's . Her journey from player to coach is emblematic of the evolving nature of the and the increasing recognition of women's contributions to at all levels. As she embarks on this new chapter, the community will be watching closely to see how her influence shapes the future of the Red Roses and the broader women's game. Scarratt’s commitment is not just a personal milestone; it is a reflection of the growing investment in women's s and an indication of the exciting future that lies ahead for women’s in England.