Meg Jones replaces pregnant Red Roses captain for Six Nations
John Mitchell has put his faith in Meg Jones who played a prominent role in England’s victorious World Cup campaign - Alex Davidson/Getty Images Zoe Stratford (nee Aldcroft) will miss this year’s Women’s Six Nations after announcing she is pregnant with her first child, with Meg Jones taking over as England captain. Gloucester-Hartpury forward Stratford, who led the Red Roses to World Cup glory last year, confirmed her baby is due in September. Stratford and her husband Luke revealed the news on Instagram: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zoe Stratford (@zoealdcroft_) John Mitchell, the Red Roses head coach, will name his Six Nations squad on Friday, but he has already given the captaincy to Jones.
“Meg reflects our values; her personality, capabilities and leadership are hugely valuable,” said Mitchell. “She brings an infectious energy that lifts those around her. ” What has Jones said about being awarded the captaincy?
Jones steps up from her vice-captaincy role following an outstanding 2025, in which she became an attacking lynchpin for the Red Roses. She will be supported by vice-captains Amy Cokayne and Alex Matthews, both of whom have won more than 80 caps for England. “Firstly, I’m really excited for Zoe and wish her and Strats every happiness on their news,” Jones 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 along with a tight leadership team. “I’m buzzing to get back in camp with the girls for the Six Nations.
I’ll just be the same old Meg and know I’ll have great support from Zoe, the leaders and the whole squad. ” Jones has become an attacking lynchpin for England - Alex Davidson/Getty Images Are other players on maternity leave? Yes, Stratford is the third player, after Bristol Bears duo Abbie Ward and Lark Atkin-Davies, to announce they are pregnant.
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