England's all-time record points-scorer Emily Scarratt has made her transition from player to full-time coach permanent, joining John Mitchell's Red Roses backroom staff on a long-term basis.
The 36-year-old, who won 119 caps and appeared at five Rugby World Cups — a record for any English player, male or female — initially took on the role of lead attack and backs coach on an interim basis for the 2026 Women's Six Nations. After England swept to an eighth consecutive tournament title in May, Scarratt returned briefly to her role as assistant coach at Premiership Women's Rugby side Loughborough Lightning, but she will now depart the club after eight years to commit fully to the national setup.
"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," Scarratt said. "There was plenty of uncertainty, but I've thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity and learned so much already."
Scarratt retired from playing immediately after helping England lift the Rugby World Cup at a sold-out Allianz Stadium in September 2025 — her second world title. Her impact on the attack was immediate: the Red Roses scored 27 more points during the 2026 Six Nations than in the previous year's edition, demonstrating the tactical sharpness she brought from the pitch to the coaching box.
Former attack coach Lou Meadows departed the setup after the World Cup triumph, leaving a vacancy Scarratt has now filled on a permanent footing.
"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 added.
Head coach John Mitchell highlighted the composure she brings to the role. "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."
Scarratt's appointment further bolsters a coaching staff that has guided England to sustained dominance in women's rugby, with the Red Roses aiming to defend their World Cup title in 2027.
Sources
- BBC Sport — Emily Scarratt joins England coaching team: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/cg7mz9zvdr0o
