Women's rugby is on the rise, and the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) season is kicking off with a bang! But here's the real question: can the momentum from England's World Cup triumph translate into a surge in popularity for the domestic game?
Following England's historic victory at Twickenham in September, the PWR season begins this Friday, aiming to capitalize on the sport's growing visibility. The World Cup final against Canada wasn't just a thrilling match; it was a record-breaker. With 81,885 fans in attendance, it became the most-attended women's rugby match ever and the second-highest for any World Cup final, men's or women's. And this is the part most people miss: it was also the most-watched women's rugby match on UK television, peaking at 5.8 million viewers. That's a massive audience tuning in to see these athletes in action.
This season, the PWR is poised to build on this unprecedented growth, with England's World Cup heroes returning to their clubs. Take Harlequins, for instance, who will feature full-back Ellie Kildunne on Friday evening against Loughborough Lightning. Kildunne, reflecting on her return, admitted, 'It's one of those things you wrestle with in your mind. You crave time off, but you also miss it terribly.' Loughborough, meanwhile, boasts Sadia Kabeya, the player of the match in that unforgettable World Cup final.
The BBC is stepping up its coverage, broadcasting a live game every week of the season on BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and app. This includes Friday's opener and other key fixtures like Gloucester-Hartpury vs. Saracens on Sunday, where England captain Zoe Aldcroft will lead her team against Canada's World Rugby women's player of the year, Sophie de Goede.
But here's where it gets controversial: With 130 World Cup players across the PWR, including stars like Ireland's Aoife Wafer and New Zealand's Amy Rule, some argue that the league is becoming too reliant on international talent. Is this a sign of strength or a potential weakness for domestic player development? Genevieve Shore, PWR executive chair, disagrees, stating, 'The PWR is the best women's domestic league in the world, and we want to welcome all these new rugby fans with open arms.'
Let's dive into the teams and their key players. Harlequins, for example, not only have Kildunne but also scrum-half Lucy Packer. Last season, they faced a crushing semi-final defeat by Saracens, but with new signing Aoife Wafer, they're looking to bounce back. Wafer, one of the best forwards globally, could be the game-changer they need.
Loughborough Lightning, finishing sixth last season, will rely on Kabeya and Helena Rowland, who impressed at the World Cup. However, they'll miss Emily Scarratt, who retired from playing this week but will remain as a coach. Is this the end of an era, or a new beginning for Loughborough?
Trailfinders Women, seventh last season, have signed Megan Jones, a standout at the World Cup. With head coach Barney Maddison at the helm, they're building a strong foundation, though a playoff push might be a season away. Exeter Chiefs, finalists in 2022 and 2023, will lean on Maddie Feaunati and Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, both World Cup winners. But can they overcome the loss of Rachel Johnson?
Sale Sharks, bottom of the table last season, have bolstered their squad with Morwenna Talling, Amy Cokayne, and Holly Aitchison. Leicester Tigers, however, have lost key players like Jones and Cokayne, leaving them without an England international. Can their new coaching team turn things around?
Gloucester-Hartpury, three-time champions, will aim for a fourth title under scrum coach-turned-head coach Dan Murphy. With eight World Cup winners, including Aldcroft and Natasha Hunt, they're favorites. But can they maintain their dominance without former coach Sean Lynn?
Saracens, last season's runners-up, are led by Lotte Sharp and Marlie Packer, who has dismissed retirement rumors. With Jess Breach and Zoe Harrison, they're a force to be reckoned with. And the return of Sophie de Goede could be the missing piece for their title bid.
Bristol Bears, under new coach Scott Lawson, will look to continue their momentum with stars like Hannah Botterman and Abbie Ward. But can they reach the finals again?
Finally, the question on everyone's mind: where will Abby Dow play this season? Her decision could significantly impact the final standings. What do you think? Will the PWR live up to the hype, or is there too much pressure on these players to deliver? Let us know in the comments!
