Six Nations contenders threaten Red Roses’ rule as World Cup looms large

From left to right: Scotland’s Helen Nelson, France’s Manae Feleu, Wales’ Hannah Jones, England’s Zoe Aldcroft, Ireland’s Neve Jones and Italy’s Elisa Giordano at the official launch of the 2025 Women's Six Nations. Photograph: John Sibley/Action Images/Reuters

The England captain, Zoe Aldcroft, lifting the Women’s Six Nations trophy after defeating France to claim the Red Roses’ seventh successive title is the image everyone is expecting to see when the tournament concludes. England’s domination in the tournament stems from the introduction of professional contracts in 2019, since then they have not lost a game in the Six Nations and victory over Italy in their tournament opener on Sunday would bring a 30th consecutive win in the competition.

England are favourites for another clean sweep, but would a loss actually benefit the Red Roses in the long run, particularly with a home Rugby World Cup happening later this year? In their past 51 games, their only defeat came in the World Cup final against New Zealand in 2022. Some believe losing could offer invaluable lessons should they come under pressure again.