In a landmark decision for women's rugby, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed that England's Red Roses will break new ground this summer by playing a test match at the iconic Stadium of Light in Sunderland.
The fixture, scheduled for Saturday, 14th September, represents a strategic push to grow the women's game beyond its traditional southern strongholds and engage passionate fans in the North East. This will be the first time the England women's team has played at the home of Sunderland AFC, a 49,000-seater stadium renowned for its electric atmosphere.
A Strategic Move North
The RFU's choice of venue is a clear statement of intent. By taking the team to the North East, the governing body aims to capitalise on the region's famous sporting passion and inspire a new generation of players and supporters.
"We are thrilled to be taking the Red Roses to the Stadium of Light," said an RFU spokesperson. "The North East is a hotbed for sport, and we want to give as many people as possible the opportunity to see their world-class national team play live. This is a fantastic chance to connect with our incredible fans in the region and put on a spectacular event."
Building on Unprecedented Success
This historic match comes at a time when women's rugby in England is riding an enormous wave of success. The Red Roses are currently one of the most dominant forces in world rugby, boasting a sell-out crowd at Twickenham for last year's WXV victory and recording a thrilling win over rivals France.
The team, under the guidance of head coach John Mitchell, continues to set new standards for performance and professionalism. Star full-back Ellie Kildunne, recently crowned the World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year, exemplifies the exciting, attacking talent within the squad that fans will flock to see.
More Than Just a Game
The event in Sunderland is envisioned as more than just eighty minutes of rugby. It is planned as a full-day festival of sport, designed to entertain the whole family and showcase the very best of the game. Further details regarding the opposition and ticketing information are expected to be announced by the RFU in the coming weeks.
This venture to the Stadium of Light signals a bold new chapter for the Red Roses, firmly establishing them as a national team for the entire country and setting the stage for another unforgettable chapter in their story.
