Aldcroft replaces Packer as England captain for 2025

Head coach John Mitchell has replaced Marlie Packer with Zoe Aldcroft as England's captain for 2025 as the Red Roses count down to this summer's World Cup.

The Gloucester-Hartpury lock, 28, will lead the Red Roses in the upcoming Women's Six Nations and in the home Rugby World Cup that starts in August.

Saracens flanker Packer is named one of the vice-captains alongside Leicester centre Meg Jones.

The decision by Mitchell comes with increasing competition for places in the Red Roses squad, especially in the back row where Packer plays.

Aldcroft was named World Player of the Year in 2021 and has led Gloucester-Hartpury to the last two Premiership Women's Rugby titles.

"It's an incredible honour," said the versatile forward, who can play lock and across the back row and has 58 caps.

"I feel privileged to have the trust of John Mitchell and the coaching staff.

"To be able to follow in Marlie's footsteps means a lot to me. I am extremely grateful for the knowledge and advice she has shared with me over the years, and I know I will be well supported by her, Meg and our whole leadership group."

Aldcroft has captained England before, including against Scotland in their successful 2024 Six Nations Grand Slam campaign.

The decision to take the captaincy from Packer is indicative of the depth England now possess in her position and that her place in the matchday squad is not guaranteed.

"As with many positions, there is intense competition for places in the back row and Marlie's ability to deliver big performances on the pitch needs to be her focus," said Mitchell.

"I've outlined that as a challenge for her, one that I know she'll take on with everything she has."

Packer has 108 caps and was named World Player of the Year in 2023 but the 35-year-old did not start every match of the 2024 Six Nations.

"I have loved every minute of being captain of the Red Roses and have created memories in the role that will last a lifetime," Packer said.

"Zoe is a fantastic leader who deserves this opportunity. The way she conducts herself on and off the field is outstanding; she has all the attributes to succeed as Red Roses captain.

"She has my full support, and I will do everything I can to enable her. I will continue to give everything to the team."

Jones will resume her role as vice-captain having missed England's WXV campaign last autumn with injury.

The 28-year-old said earlier this week that rugby has been "an escape" for her following the death of both her parents in 2024.

However she has also stressed a need to slow down and focus on her priorities.

"This is a big year from a Roses' point of view, but I just want to take each day as it comes," she said.