England win eighth successive Women’s Six Nations with dominant victory over France

England secured their eighth consecutive Women’s Six Nations title and fifth straight Grand Slam with a dominant victory over France in Bordeaux, extending their unbeaten run to 38 matches.

Despite facing a severe injury crisis, the Red Roses swept aside all opponents in the tournament, building on their 2025 World Cup triumph.

Two first-half tries from Ellie Kildunne set the stage for England’s victory, with the Harlequins star delivering in a crucial match.

Hooker Amy Cokayne and captain Meg Jones were instrumental, with Jones playing every minute of the tournament.

France, who had hoped to replicate their 2018 victory, were left disappointed after a physically intense encounter.

France coach François Ratier emphasized the importance of preventing an early England lead, a plan that initially worked as France scored a team try in the 14th minute through Pauline Bourdon Sansus.

However, England responded with a try from Sarah Bern, and the match descended into chaotic play before England’s attack found its rhythm.

Kildunne scored twice more and Jess Breach added a brilliant corner finish.

Zoe Harrison’s penalty started the second half; her impeccable kicking was crucial, missing only two of 31 shots across the tournament.

England coach John Mitchell praised Harrison: “She is very good. Zoe’s mental state has changed since the World Cup and I like that mental state. I think the players enjoy her as well because she drives the game. She is very decisive.”

France fought back with tries from Anaïs Grando and Bourdon Sansus, but Breach’s second try set up a tense final 10 minutes.

The emotion of the win was captured when Cokayne celebrated by throwing the ball and yelling at the jeering French crowd.

France captain Manaé Feleu, fighting tears, said: “I am really proud of the girls and I am really proud of the group, we still have a lot to work on. I want to congratulate England, they are world champions and there is a reason for that.”

Despite the loss, Ratier’s first tournament in charge was impressive and the team will continue its development.

France lineup: Barrat; Grando, Rousset, T Feleu, Murie; Arbez (Queyroi 67), Bourdon Sansus (Chambon 67); Mwayembe (Brosseau 55), Lazarko (Riffonneau 57), Khalfaoui (Bernadou 55), Soqeta (Zago 49), Fall Raclot (Correa 71), Berthoumieu (Escudero 49), M Feleu, Champon.

France scorers: Tries – Bourdon Sansus (2), Grando, Bernadou. Conversions – Arbez (3), Queyroi.

England lineup: Kildunne; Breach, Jones, Rowland, Moloney-MacDonald; Harrison, L Packer; Carson, Cokayne, Bern (Maud 58), Campion, Burns, Burton (M Packer 60), Kabeya, Feaunati (Short 71).

England scorers: Tries – Bern, Kildunne (2), Breach (2), Cokayne. Conversions – Harrison (5). Penalty – Harrison. Referee: Clara Munarini (Italy). Attendance: 35,062.

Looking ahead, England’s next opponents are Australia in the WXV series, followed by tougher tests against Canada and New Zealand. Mitchell said: “In four years time we want to do the same thing [as we did in 2025].”