Interest in joining England's Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) is strong, with several clubs including Bath registering their intent. However, the expansion of the top flight, currently comprising nine teams after Worcester Warriors' demise in 2023, raises key questions about how non-professional players will manage travel and whether the move will boost international competition.
The expression of interest phase was exploratory, not a formal application, and part of PWR's 10-year plan to build a sustainable and competitive league. Clubs had to meet criteria including £1.2m annual rugby programme investment, facilities meeting PWR standards, and a squad of 45 to 55 players. Welsh, Scottish, and Irish unions have expressed interest, alongside English clubs like Bath, which confirmed its interest but stressed the need for investment in the player pool and a robust business plan.
Clubs had until 30 April to notify PWR, with expansion ruled out for the 2026-27 season but possible later. A major concern is travel for non-professional players, who hold jobs outside rugby. Gloucester-Hartpury co-captain Mo Hunt noted that Sunday games have been 'brutal' for players returning to work on Monday, and Friday night games pose similar issues. She emphasised that if the league moves towards professionalism, financial backing must follow.
Wales scrum-half Keira Bevan welcomed the prospect of a Welsh team, stating that many Welsh players would consider returning home if the option existed. She highlighted the PWR's status as the best women's club competition, attracting international talent like Ireland's Aoife Wafer, New Zealand's Alana Borland, and Canada's Sophie de Goede.
Exeter Chiefs head coach Steve Salvin sees expansion as an opportunity to strengthen the league and close the gap on England's dominance in international rugby. He noted that while England are 'far and away the strongest team,' bringing other nations into the PWR could increase jeopardy and aid their development.
