Shaun Edwards joins Red Roses as short-term coaching consultant
Shaun Edwards has begun a short-term coaching consultancy with England's women's team, joining the Red Roses ahead of their WXV Global Series match against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on Saturday. It is understood the 59-year-old will work with current Red Roses defence coach Sarah Hunter for the remainder of their WXV Global Series matches.
Edwards, 59, has previously been approached by the Rugby Football Union about a role with England's men's team but was never appointed; he has not worked for England's men or women before. He recently left his role as France men's defence coach, where he won three Six Nations titles, and is described in the report as one of the most decorated coaches in rugby union.
His playing career in rugby league included 36 caps for Great Britain. He later moved into coaching, with spells that included London Wasps, Wales and a six-year stint with France.
The announcement follows England's 39-Test winning streak ending when they drew 26-26 with Canada last weekend.
On the appointment of Edwards, England head coach John Mitchell said: "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 set-up for the first time. "He has a huge amount of respect for the Red Roses and what we stand for; he sees it as a privilege to join our environment. "His coaching credentials are exceptional and his experience at the highest level of the game speaks for itself. "Defensively, Sarah Hunter is relishing the opportunity to learn from him, alongside the rest of our coaching group, as we head into another exciting Test match against New Zealand."
Last week, Edwards expressed his desire to return to coaching and be a part of next year's men's Six Nations. "I'm definitely open to offers now, until I sort out a full-time role," he told the Daily Mail. He also said: "I'm a proud Englishman and everybody loves to represent their country, don't they? I'm no different."
Edwards will work alongside current Red Roses defence coach Sarah Hunter for the rest of England's WXV Global Series fixtures, beginning with the match against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.
