England Women to appoint new captain following Emily Rudge announcement

Emily Rudge will no longer captain England Women as the St Helens vice-captain announces the international side will have a new leader under their new head coach. 

Stuart Barrow will take charge of England Women until the 2025 World Cup, and the new boss has opted for a fresh face to lead his side.

Barrow takes the role from Craig Richards, who stood down as England were knocked out of the delayed 2021 World Cup tournament on home soil. 

Having made her international debut at the 2008 World Cup against Australia, Rudge has gone on to win a record breaking 30 caps for England during her career. 

She has featured in every World Cup since. 

And despite no longer being the team’s captain, Rudge intends to continue to do all she can for England, who face France in a double-header mid-season international alongside the Men’s in France.  

England Women to appoint new captain – Emily Rudge’s message

Rudge shared the news on social media that she will no longer captain the side.

She said: “What an unbelievable privilege it has been to captain England Women for the last five years.

“Being able to captain your country in a sport that you love, is a true blessing and something I will cherish for the rest of my life.

“Thank you to Craig Richards for seeing something in me, which others, (including myself) did not. To lead the team alongside you, through a home World Cup was the biggest honour!

“I will be forever grateful to you, for giving me that opportunity.

“As a new coach takes over, so too, will a new captain. So, I would just like to wish them both the best and thank everyone for the love and support I have been shown whilst in the role.

“I will remain fully committed to the team and will continue to give my all whenever I get the opportunity to wear the England shirt again.”

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