In this week’s episode of The Rugby Paper Roundup, Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by 84-cap former England centre and 2014 World Cup winner Rachael Burford to preview the opening round of the 2026 Women’s Six Nations – with a huge occasion on the horizon.
The sun is shining, anticipation is building, and over 75,000 fans will watch England face Ireland at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham – a landmark moment for the Red Roses as they aim to lay down an early marker.
We break down the big game through a centre’s lens, from the midfield battle and England’s tactical approach to how Ireland can stay in the contest – including the threat posed by players like Aoife Wafer, Erin King and the Dalton-Higgins midfield pairing.
We also discuss Meg Jones’ role as captain, England’s best centre combination, and the key battleground that could decide the match.
Beyond Twickenham, we preview the rest of Round One – including Wales v Scotland and France v Italy – and give our predictions for how the tournament will start.
Plus, we touch on a major story in the men’s game, with Courtney Lawes returning to English rugby with Sale Sharks and targeting a potential comeback for the 2027 World Cup.
We discuss…
- England v Ireland – handling the occasion at Twickenham
- Tactical breakdown – where the game will be won and lost
- Ireland’s key threats and how they can challenge England
- Meg Jones’ captaincy and England’s midfield combinations
- Wales v Scotland – styles, matchups and prediction
- France v Italy – storylines and players to watch
- Courtney Lawes’ return and what it could mean for England
Plus, Rachael brings insight from her own England career – and we finish with a fun quickfire, including her go-to Nando’s order, dressing room stories and life away from rugby.
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