Former captain 'proud and privileged' to be on Red Roses journey

FORMER England captain Sarah Hunter hailed the growth of women's rugby as she prepares to experience a World Cup in a "different capacity".

- By REBECCA JOHNSON

The 39-year-old retired from rugby in 2023, finishing her career as England's most capped player with 141 appearances and is now their defence coach.

Hunter featured in the 2010 World Cup and, with the competition returning to English soil this year, she expressed her delight at the growth of the game as England prepare for the tournament opener at the Stadium of Light tonight.

"I'm super excited just to see them go out.

"They're all ready and, like I said, it's been three years in the making since our first camp in Chester," Hunter said.

"This preseason they've worked harder than they've ever worked before.

"To see how they've grown as a squad and a collective, it's really exciting for them to be coming now to a home World Cup, first game.