Megan Jones determined to be 'same old Meg' after John Mitchell names Ealing Trailfinders centre as England captain
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Published 19/03/2026 at 20:27 GMT
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With the news that former skipper Zoe Stratford is expecting her first child in September 2026, Megan Jones has been named as the new Red Roses captain. The Ealing Trailfinders centre will try to help England lift their eighth consecutive Guiness Women's Six Nations title this spring and picks up the armband after a sensational 2025, in which John Mitchell's side won the Women's Rugby World Cup.
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Megan Jones says it is a "huge honour" to be selected as the new England captain for 2026 by head coach John Mitchell.
The 29-year-old picks up the armband in the stead of Zoe Stratford, who herself was named Red Roses skipper in January 2025 and has recently revealed that she is expecting her first child.
Both played a central role in England's 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup triumph, with Jones starting 12 of 13 international matches last year.
Jones was also instrumental in England achieving a Grand Slam in the 2025 Guinness Women's Six Nations and is "buzzing" to try to help the Red Roses to an eighth consecutive title in April and May.
”It’s a huge honour to have been named captain of the Red Roses," said Jones.
"Mitch [head coach John Mitchell] and I have built a strong relationship over the past three years, and it’s a great feeling to have his trust to lead the group along with a tight leadership team.
”I’m buzzing to get back in camp with the girls for the Six Nations. I’ll just be the same old Meg and know I’ll have great support from Zoe, the leaders and the whole squad.”
Jones was previously vice-captain of the Red Roses alongside two-time world champion Marlie Packer, and Sale Sharks hooker Amy Cokayne has stepped up to fill Jones' leadership role.
Head coach Mitchell said that Jones' "infectious energy" and "huge influence" were factors in his decision.
Mitchell said: ”Meg reflects our values; her personality, capabilities and leadership are hugely valuable to the Red Roses squad.
"She brings an infectious energy that lifts those around her and has had a huge influence on our culture and connections over the past three years.
"Not only is Meg highly respected, but she also consistently produces high-level performances and leads by example every time she takes to the field.”
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Born in Cardiff, Jones has represented Team GB at the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games, and the Ealing Trailfinders centre has 33 Test caps for England.
Outgoing captain Stratford (nee Aldcroft) announced she was pregnant via an Instagram post on Wednesday, with the arrival date expected to be September 2026.
"I’m really excited for Zoe and wish her and Strats [Luke Stratford] every happiness on their news,” Jones said.
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