The action begins with a blockbuster England vs. USA showdown in Sunderland, and we’re throwing open the clubhouse doors from 6:30pm so you can catch every moment from Penns Place. The bar will be open, the kitchen will be serving food all evening, and the atmosphere will be electric as our very own Girls’ Section and brand-new Women’s team lead the cheers for the Red Roses.

Let’s pack out the clubhouse and show our support as England look to bounce back from that heartbreaking defeat to New Zealand in the 2021 final.

This is a golden moment for women’s rugby both here at Petersfield RFC and on the international stage.

Globally, the women’s game is growing faster than ever, with packed stadiums, record TV audiences, and the world’s best players producing breathtaking skill and power. Here at Petersfield, our own Girls’ Section continues to thrive, and 2025 marks a milestone with the launch of our first-ever Women’s team. This World Cup is the perfect opportunity to celebrate that growth and inspire the next generation of female players.

England, the host nation for this year’s tournament, head into the World Cup as hot favourites to lift the trophy, fresh from claiming the 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations title in April.

Drawn in Pool A alongside USA, Australia, and Samoa, the Red Roses are set for a thrilling group stage featuring global stars like USA’s powerhouse Ilona Maher and Australia’s try-scoring sensation Maddison Levi, the 2024 World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year.

Formed in 1986, England’s women’s team are widely recognised as one of the strongest sides in the sport. Ranked number one in the world, they’ve lifted the Rugby World Cup twice - in 1994 and 2014 - and are hungry for a third title.

Under the guidance of head coach John Mitchell, the squad comes into the tournament in formidable form, having crushed Spain 97–7 in their final warm-up match.

The 32-player squad features a mix of rising stars and seasoned legends:

Debutants like Abi Burton, Mackenzie Carson, and Emma Sing are ready to make their mark.
Emily Scarratt, one of the game’s greats, becomes the first English player to appear in five World Cups.
Captain Zoe Aldcroft leads for the third campaign, with support from vice-captains Marlie Packer and Megan Jones.
Ellie Kildunne, the electric fullback crowned World Player of the Year 2024, is one to watch after her sensational Six Nations try tally.

And a special mention to Maud Muir, the powerhouse prop and fan favourite, is not only a vital part of England’s scrum dominance - she’s also family to us here at Petersfield RFC, as the niece of our very own Clubhouse Manager, Jolene.

Join Us at Penns Place on Thursday 22nd August from 6:30pm

Whether you’re a lifelong fan, interested in womens rugby, or just looking for a good night out, come along and cheer on the Red Roses.