sevendayweekender – Head coach John Mitchell has committed to leading England’s Red Roses into the 2025 home Rugby World Cup with a bold mindset. The former New Zealand coach emphasized that the team must play with “no regrets” as they chase their first world title since 2014. England last reached the final in 2022 and 2017 but fell short both times against New Zealand.
The team’s training camp began in June, and Mitchell has made it clear that the goal is not only to win but to do it with full commitment. “How do we get done what we haven’t had for a long time?” Mitchell asked, pointing to the importance of reassessing past efforts. With the tournament on home soil, he sees this as a rare and powerful opportunity for redemption.
Innovative Training Brings New Energy to Squad
Mitchell has added fresh dynamics to England’s training approach. Players are split into teams for “strong women” challenges that test both fitness and collaboration. More uniquely, he’s introduced an “NBA draft system,” where players must strategically select or release teammates to strengthen team cohesion and awareness.
According to Mitchell, this method allows players to better understand each other’s strengths and make collective decisions. It also builds stronger communication and leadership within the group, giving them an edge in high-pressure match scenarios. The Red Roses’ pre-season isn’t just about conditioning—it’s about crafting a mentally sharp and resilient squad.
Versatility Key as Squad Faces Selection Pressure
The current training group includes 42 players, but Mitchell will select only 32 for the World Cup. He will choose 18 forwards and 14 backs. This limitation has led him to prioritize versatility and ask players to cover multiple positions. He is once again considering Exeter’s Claudia McDonald as a backup scrum-half, even though she primarily plays on the wing. He is also evaluating Gloucester’s Mia Venner for roles at nine, full-back, and wing. While this strategy increases flexibility, it may force him to leave out some highly skilled specialists. Mitchell acknowledges that making those decisions will be difficult but necessary.
Treviso Camp to Test Physical and Mental Limits
In July, the team will head to Treviso, Italy, for their final preparation camp before the tournament. It marks their first overseas training camp and is expected to be the most intense. The Italian heat will challenge players physically and mentally, with temperatures expected around 30°C.
Mitchell believes the extreme environment will simulate tough World Cup conditions and force the squad to adapt under pressure. He also plans to create “niggly” sessions, filled with scenario-based drills—such as playing with fewer rest periods and managing cards or head injury protocols. It’s all designed to leave no room for unpreparedness.
Mitchell Eyes Growth, Not Guarantees
England will play warm-up matches against Spain and France before opening their pool campaign against the USA and Samoa. The team is using their narrow Six Nations win over France as a key learning opportunity. They are now addressing defensive issues that arose during Sarah Hunter’s absence, as she has returned to her coaching duties. While fans discuss possible future clashes with Canada or reigning champions New Zealand, Mitchell keeps the team focused on the present. He avoids looking too far ahead and insists the squad must earn every step forward. With careful preparation, tactical innovation, and mental resilience, Mitchell aims to ensure England will face every challenge fully prepared.
