The Princess of Wales has wished the Red Roses rugby team good luck in a video message ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, which begins this weekend. In a clip shared on the official England Rugby Twitter account on Friday, Kate Middleton said she would be "setting her alarm early" to watch the England women's team compete.
Beaming in the video, the princess voiced her hopes that the team would "bring the cup home" again, having last won the tournament in 2014. She said: "Hello everyone. I wanted to take a moment to wish the Red Roses all the very best of luck for the rugby world cup in New Zealand. I had so much fun with you all at Twickenham earlier this year and I cannot wait to see how you get on during the tournament."
Kate became patron of the England Rugby Football League and Rugby Football Union in February, inheriting the role from her brother-in-law, Prince Harry. She has long been passionate about sport, having played tennis and hockey as a child and watched rugby with her family years before marrying Prince William.
In the video, the princess wore a bright red tweed blazer from Zara with a rose-shaped brooch, a stylish nod to the team. She visited Twickenham earlier this year to meet the England squad and even took part in a training session.
The Red Roses will compete in the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, which runs from 8 October to 12 November. Kate added: "For many of the team this will be the first world cup you've played in — congratulations in being selected for the squad. I know this will be a particularly proud moment in your career so far and I hope you enjoy every minute." She also noted her delight that some of the 2014 winning squad were returning, before concluding: "Good luck for the weeks ahead. I'll be setting my alarm clock early to cheer you on all the way."
