England's World Cup-winning captain has announced she is pregnant

The 29-year-old, who led the Red Roses to World Cup glory on home soil just seven months ago, said her baby is due in September.

“We are so incredibly grateful and excited,” Stratford wrote.

Her announcement means she will miss the upcoming Women’s Six Nations, with England set to begin their campaign against Ireland at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday, 11 April.

A decision on who will captain the side in her absence has yet to be confirmed. Marlie Packer and Meg Jones both served as vice-captains during the World Cup, while Alex Matthews skippered the side in their pool-stage clash against Australia.

Head coach John Mitchell is expected to name his Six Nations squad on Friday.

Stratford, who was named World Player of the Year in 2021, has also enjoyed sustained success at club level, helping Gloucester-Hartpury secure three consecutive Premiership Women’s Rugby titles.

Off the field, she recently opened a coffee shop alongside England and Gloucester team-mate Natasha Hunt.

She becomes the third England international to announce a pregnancy this year, following Bristol pair Lark Atkin-Davies and Abbie Ward.