Shaun Edwards, renowned for his defensive expertise, has joined the Red Roses coaching setup in a consultancy role until the conclusion of the WXV Global Series. This marks his first venture into women’s rugby, with head coach John Mitchell praising Edwards's credentials as “exceptional.”

At 59, Edwards is already actively contributing as the team gears up to face New Zealand this Saturday at Allianz Stadium. Following this encounter, the squad will travel to Canada and the US next month.

Previously, Edwards left his position with France in June after over six years, a change prompted by head coach Fabien Galthié restructuring the coaching staff. Mitchell noted, “Since his time with France ended, we have had a conversation about our game, and he expressed an interest in working in an international women’s setup for the first time.” He emphasized Edwards's deep respect for the Red Roses and how he views this opportunity as a privilege.

Edwards's coaching journey began in rugby union at Wasps, where he ascended from defence and backs coach in 2001 to head coach in 2005, leading the club to a Heineken Cup and Premiership victory. In 2011, he joined the Welsh national team, winning four Six Nations titles, including three grand slams, under head coach Warren Gatland. Later, as defence coach for France, he secured three more Six Nations titles.

While Edwards cannot win a trophy with the Red Roses due to the nature of the WXV, he aims to restore their winning momentum following a 39-game streak that ended last Saturday with a 26-26 draw against Canada. This weekend, England faces the Black Ferns, the last team to defeat them in the 2022 World Cup final, in front of an expected crowd of over 50,000.