"Red Roses will blossom" - John Mitchell ready to reset after World Cup triumph

Now, attention turns to extending an extraordinary unbeaten run, with the Red Roses targeting a 34th consecutive win as they prepare to face Ireland.

England arrive full of confidence after a commanding 49-5 win in Cork last year. However, they remain cautious of an Ireland team that pushed close to a World Cup semi-final place and will present a serious challenge.

The Red Roses have dominated this competition in recent years, winning every Six Nations title since 2019. Their last defeat in the tournament came in 2018, when France edged them to the title.

Mitchell has made it clear that, despite recent success, his squad are approaching this campaign with a renewed mindset. Speaking ahead of the opener, he emphasised the importance of starting fresh.

"The thing is, we're excited, it's a new start. The Red Roses, we have to earn it again, we get all that. We also don't sit still, so we're excited about what we're going to bring and how we're going to approach the game."

That message has been central to England’s preparation. With the World Cup triumph now behind them, the focus has shifted firmly onto what lies ahead. Mitchell explained how the squad has processed the transition into a new season.

"I think we handled it quite well… It had three stages to our communication around our feelings around '25, what are we hungry for in '26 and what's unfinished for us."

The idea of building something greater continues to drive the group. England’s dominance in recent years has already established a strong legacy, but Mitchell believes there is still more to achieve.

He pointed to the opportunity to create something lasting, while acknowledging the challenges that come with sustained success.

"There's definitely that opportunity. This team has probably already built a legacy, I guess it's an opportunity to build a dynasty but we're going to have to earn that right.

"It also won't hurt, and if we don't get it right occasionally over the next two years, there's a lot of factors that will distract our girls along the way, so we've just got to be where our feet are and remain focused."

He remains confident in the direction of the team, adding simply, "The Red Roses will blossom."

Leadership will be crucial to maintaining England’s high standards, and Meg Jones steps into the role of captain for this year’s competition.

Having already demonstrated her authority as a vice-captain during the World Cup, she now takes on greater responsibility. Known for her defensive intensity and direct running, Jones is expected to set the tone on and off the field.

For Jones, the role carries deep personal significance, something she draws motivation from every time she represents her country.

"I think I'll always have that emotion with me, that pride of carrying mum and dad and having their name on my back is always special. That will always be with me, I'll always carry that and that's something I'll channel as much as I can."