Women's Rugby Rundown

Welcome to WRR 254 for July 6-12. In international 15s action, the USA Eagles bounced back to level their test series against South Africa, though the on-field triumph was vastly overshadowed by another broadcasting failure from World Rugby that left the match dark while 12 separate men’s fixtures streamed with no known issues. Over in the 7s arena, PRISM FUKUOKA won the Taiyo Seimei Women’s Series second stop. Off the field, global structural changes are accelerating as Spain unveiled a progressive multi-year roadmap, Australia pledged a multi-million dollar sports package to Fiji, and the rugby community united to defend Olympic star Ilona Maher from vile internet commentary. Finally, domestic leagues are heating up as both the Super W’s competition and Super Aupiki rapidly edge closer to the end of their competitive regular seasons, while the Denver Onyx climbed to the summit of the table following consecutive days of extra-time drama, and an independent review was formally launched to investigate a toxic culture at Coventry Welsh.🌍 Our global women's rugby news recap can be found at https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/07/13/usa-eagles-split-the-series-in-south-africa-while-double-overtimes-shake-up-wer-episode-254/

Welcome to WRR 253 for June 29 to July 5. The international sevens circuit brought massive excitement as France claimed the gold medal at the Hamburg Sevens, navigating a highly competitive tournament where traditional powerhouses fell early. Meanwhile, the global rugby calendar saw plenty of off-field drama and on-field action, headlined by South Africa securing a landmark victory over the United States in a test match overshadowed by widespread global broadcast failures. In domestic club competitions, historic streaks were broken across Australia and New Zealand as the Queensland Reds and Hurricanes Poua pulled off monumental upsets to reshape their respective playoff pictures.🌍 Our global women's rugby news recap can be found at https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/07/06/wrr-253/

Welcome to WRR 252 for June 22 through 28. This weekend delivered a sensational haul of sevens silverware as Ukraine swept the European Sevens Trophy, and the Hammerheads secured the domestic LIT Super Sevens crown. In fifteen-a-side action, a youthful Welsh squad stunned the Barbarians, while Saracens captured the PWR title, Stade Bordelais grabbed a historic quadruple in the AXA Elite 1 finale, and the Delhi Redz claimed a historic inaugural franchise title. Beyond the pitch, the professional landscape shifted with a landmark four-year contract framework from the RFU and a game-changing high-performance executive appointment by Rugby Australia, building major momentum just as we look ahead to a colossal international test series brewing between South Africa and the USA!🌍 Our global women's rugby news recap can be found at: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/06/29/saracens-overthrow-trailfinders-and-stade-bordelais-seals-a-historic-quadruple-wrr-252/

Welcome to WRR 251 for July 13 to 19. The Barbarians have released a star-studded roster ready to clash against Wales, while Brazil’s Yaras lock in a home series against South Africa’s Springbok A team. Plus, we've updated our WXV tracker with updates from Scotland and Ireland. In 7s, the Nagato Blue Angels soared to the top of the podium by capturing the opening leg of Japan’s Taiyo Seimei Series. Meanwhile, domestic leagues featured a breathtaking late comeback by the Western Force in the Super W, unbeaten runs for the Blues and Matatū in Super Aupiki, and ASM Romagnat and Stade Bordelais punched their tickets to France's AXA Elite 1 grand finale. Rounding out the action, the Bay Breakers continue to dismantle the competition at the top of the WER table, while the playoff matchups are officially set for the historic women's franchise debuts in India's Rugby Premier League.🌍 Our global women's rugby news recap can be found at: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/06/22/historic-indian-rpl-debut-wxv-updates-preview-of-axa-pwr-finals-wrr-251/

Welcome to WRR 250 for June 8-14. Finland captured the Europe 7s Conference title in Andorra, dominating Latvia in the final as both squads secured promotion to the 2027 Trophy Series. Off the pitch, RFU council member Matthew Smith resigned following intense backlash over a misogynistic social media post targeting pundit Maggie Alphonsi. Down in New Zealand, domestic history was made during the Super Rugby Aupiki opening round when Matatū shattered competition records by drawing an unprecedented standalone crowd of nearly twelve thousand fans to witness their victory over Chiefs Manawa. Across the Atlantic, the Bay Breakers climbed to the top of the Women's Elite Rugby standings, while Ireland's Aoife Wafer capped off the week by securing back-to-back Player of the Championship honors in the Guinness Women's Six Nations.🌍 Our global women's rugby news recap can be found at: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/06/15/finland-and-latvia-earn-promotion-as-matthew-smith-resigns-from-rfu-over-misogynistic-comments-wrr-250/

Welcome to WRR 249 for June 1 to 7. Australia officially rules the 7s world after capturing Bordeaux and the overall HSBC SVNS world title back-to-back, while Mexico hit a highest-ever ranking after winning  RAN XVs and the Trans Match was confirmed for the Bingham and Amanda Cups. Domestically, England’s PWR and France’s AXA Elite 1 completed high-scoring final rounds to lock in their postseason brackets, TC Gemini continued to rule the WER, and Australia's Super W kicked off with dramatic finishes. Off the pitch, the community faces major institutional tests, including Maggie Alphonsi speaking out against lenient RFU disciplinary decisions, and a class-action lawsuit fighting the sudden demotion of the Quinnipiac University varsity program.Get all the women’s rugby news for the week: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/06/08/australia-rules-svns-world-championships-mexico-wins-back-to-back-xvs-quinnipiac-fights-back-wrr-249/

Welcome to WRR 248 for May 25-31, 2026. On the international 7s circuit, a determined Australian squad overcame late roster adjustments to secure a thrilling tournament victory in Spain, with all eyes on the final stop of the World SVNS Championship to come this weekend. Over in 15s news, South Africa asserted their continental authority by securing another regional trophy in Kenya, while the Brazil Yaras completed a successful two-game friendly sweep. Domestically, PWR and the AXA Élite 1 have locked in their semifinal matchups, while Round 4 of Women's Elite Rugby sees TC Gemini hold onto the top of the table. I’m Wendy, here to bring you the latest in women’s rugby news, this is the Women’s Rugby Rundown and we’re about to kick off.Get all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/06/01/australia-snatches-spain-svns-the-springboks-rule-the-africa-cup-wrr-248/

Welcome to WRR 247 for May 18-24. This week, we are previewing the return of the HSBC SVNS World Championship Series in Valladolid, Spain, alongside an electrifying individual try-scoring record watch. Over in 15s, the Africa Cup launched with clinical performances from the heavyweights, while the RAN tournament set up a spectacular winner-take-all finale. On the domestic front, Spain's top division crowned a back-to-back league champion in dramatic fashion, and France's elite competition returned from a break.Read all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/05/26/wrr-247/

Welcome to WRR 246 for May 11-17, 2026. England secured an impressive eighth consecutive Guinness Women’s Six Nations crown, while Tunisia achieved a flawless promotion to the top tier of the Africa Cup. Over in the sevens world, Sri Lanka hoisted the inaugural CASA 7s title, Melina became the most decorated team in Brasil 7s history, and Shogun got back to their winning ways in Oxford. Domestically, WER Round 3 shook up the standings, Life University completed an unprecedented national treble at the USA Club Championships, and Spain's Liga Iberdrola finalized a heavyweight championship matchup.Read all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/05/18/red-roses-rule-w6n-tunisia-promoted-sevens-champions-crowned-wrr-246/

Welcome to WRR 245 for May 4–10. Japan secured a seventh consecutive Asia Rugby Championship title, while the Vancouver Thunderbirds solidified their own dynasty with a fifth-straight Premier League crown. We also saw an emotional breakthrough in the WER as the Chicago Tempest finally grabbed their first-ever franchise victory. Plus, we’re recapping the clinical action from Round 4 of the Women’s Six Nations, Tunisia's statement start to the Africa Cup, and the high-speed kickoff of the LIT Super Sevens Series. From the controversial ball size trials in the WXV to the push for professional expansion in Europe, the momentum across the globe is undeniable.Read all the women’s rugby news for the week: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/05/11/france-ireland-u21-glory-japans-asian-reign-and-chicagos-first-wer-win-wrr-245/

Welcome to WRR 244 for April 27 to May 3. It was another big weekend with updates from both the international and domestic landscapes. On the international stage, Japan started their Asia Rugby Championship title defense with an impressive victory, while Ireland made history in the U21 Six Nations Series. In domestic action, the Women's Elite Rugby officially kicked off its second season with a major upset, while Mwamba made it five in a row in the Kenya Cup. In Spain, Silicius Majadahonda retained their Copa de la Reina Iberdrola crown after a stellar final.Read all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/05/04/mwambas-5-peat-majadahonda-retains-the-cup-wer-year-2-kicks-off-wrr-244/

Welcome to WRR 243 for April 20-26. We open this week with the Black Ferns securing back-to-back Pacific Four titles and Fiji continuing their absolute reign with a third consecutive Oceania Championship. Over in Ireland, UL Bohemian cemented their dynasty with a stunning last-second victory to claim the Energia AIL crown. It was also a massive weekend for the short-form game as the national College 7s champions were revealed across both the CRC and CRAA tournaments. We are also looking ahead to the return of professional rugby as Women’s Elite Rugby prepares for its Season 2 kickoff amidst growing administrative debate.Read all the week’s Women’s Rugby News: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/04/27/black-ferns-claim-pac4-fiji-rules-oceania-and-college-7s-champions-crowned-wrr-243/

Welcome to WRR 242 for April 13-19. This week delivered a heavy-hitting set of results as the Black Ferns and USA Eagles pulled off vital wins in Kansas, while record-shattering crowds in Scotland and Ireland proved the Six Nations is truly catching fire. Spain captured their ninth consecutive European crown in overwhelming fashion, and the sevens circuit saw New Zealand continue their reign in Hong Kong. We are also keeping a close eye on the domestic front as the finalists for the MA Sorensen Award were unveiled and we learned that Quinnipiac is cutting their program. Looking ahead, we have another blockbuster weekend on the horizon!Read more of the week’s Women’s Rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/04/20/black-ferns-conquer-hong-kong-spain-secures-ninth-straight-european-title-and-the-fight-to-save-quinnipiac-rugby-wrr-242/

Welcome to WRR 241 for April 6 to 13. This week, we are diving into a whirlwind of international action as the Six Nations heats up, the Pacific Four Series kicks off in Sacramento, and the European Championship moves toward a title-deciding showdown. On the domestic front, we have major playoff structures locking in USA, Canada, and France, alongside groundbreaking pathway announcements in Australia. We are also celebrating historic milestones for the game in Cyprus, Greece and Cambodia, while looking ahead to a massive slate of international fixtures across the globe.Read all the week’s Women’s Rugby News: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/04/13/w6n-pac4-and-europe-championship-action-plus-historic-firsts-in-cambodia-cyprus-and-greece-wrr-241/

Welcome to WRR 240 for March 30–April 5, 2026. This week is headlined by a group of five high profile Olympians publicly slamming the IOC’s new mandatory genetic testing policy as a violation of human dignity and a threat to the future of women’s sports. In international play, Germany has officially been crowned the European Trophy champions and on the domestic front, the Isuzu Bulls Daisies secured a historic fourth consecutive title in South Africa’s Women’s Super League 1, and the Tropical 7s wrapped up its largest event to date in the Americas. As the road to the Super Regionals narrows in the US, the international window prepares to burst open with the kickoff of the Pacific Four Series and the of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations.Read all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/04/05/olympians-blast-ioc-policy-germany-claims-european-crown-wxv-global-series-format-wrr-240/

Welcome to WRR 239 for March 23-29. This week we are absolutely packed with breathtaking action from across the globe, including a shocker in Sao Paulo as Brazil secured their spot in the elite HSBC SVNS World Championship. In XVs news, the international calendar is locking in with squad announcements for the Pacific Four Series and the highly anticipated Guinness Six Nations, while the Netherlands and Spain issued overwhelming statements to kick off the Rugby Europe Championship, and the Wolfhounds snagged their third Celtic Challenge title. On the domestic front, the Italian champion was decided, and the race for playoff spots is heating up everywhere from England to Uganda. We also have critical developing stories regarding player welfare in Mexico, Scotland, and at the club level in England that are shaking the foundations of the game.Get all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/03/30/brazil-stuns-the-sevens-world-wolfhounds-complete-three-peat-and-wru-chair-steps-down-wrr-239/

Welcome to WRR 238 for March 16 to 22. We kick things off in South America where Argentina’s squad has made it back to back HSBC SVNS 2 titles after a gritty performance in Montevideo. With this gold medal, the Argentinians have officially punched their ticket to the season ending World Championship Series alongside fellow qualifiers South Africa and Spain, who will all join the elite SVNS 1 teams for the finale. Over in Europe, the championship stages are officially set as the Celtic Challenge and Italy’s Serie A Elite confirmed their final matchups.Read all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/03/23/wrr-238/

Welcome to WRR 236 for March 2-8. This week, the Black Ferns Sevens extend their reign of terror in Vancouver while the Celtic Challenge locks in a high-stakes semifinal bracket. In the United States, the rugby community mobilizes for an authoritative stand on inclusivity, and across the globe, domestic title races in France, Spain, and the United Kingdom reach a blistering fever pitch.Get all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/03/09/black-ferns-vancouver-terror-and-the-inclusive-stand-in-the-usa-wrr-236/

The rugby community has reached a breaking point. This week, we are taking a different approach. USA Rugby has officially released a new Competition Eligibility Policy that strictly excludes trans women from the Women’s Division, and the fallout is felt deeply across our entire sport.Between the exhaustion of systemic misogyny at home and the horror of war abroad, from Palestine and Ukraine to Sudan, the DRC, and the current strikes on Iran, the weight of the world is heavy. Usually, this is where we would give you the rundown of the week’s scores, from the SVNS results in Nairobi to the Red Roses’ record-breaking ticket sales. But to be honest, it feels wrong to talk about goal lines when the lines of our own community are being redrawn to exclude our teammates.For this week, we are skipping the normal news rundown to take a beat and acknowledge this reality. If you are exhausted, you are not alone.Read the Full News Rundown (SVNS, Six Nations, WRU Legal Battles):🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/03/02/usa-rugby-eligibility-fallout-and-the-wrus-legal-standoff-wrr-235/

Welcome to WRR 234 for February 16-22. This week, the internal crisis at the Welsh Rugby Union reached a boiling point as community clubs officially triggered an Extraordinary General Meeting to challenge the current leadership. In a major move for the professional game, New Zealand Rugby secured a landmark collective agreement that guarantees a 36.56% revenue share for athletes and introduces significant salary floors for Super Rugby Aupiki players. Stateside, Women’s Elite Rugby announced a game-changing broadcast deal with The Women’s Sports Network to stream every 2026 match for free. Domestic league leaders are currently asserting their authority across the globe, with Saracens reclaiming the top spot in England, Stade Toulousain holding firm in France, and El Salvador remaining perfect in Spain.Get all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/02/23/wru-egm-triggered-and-wer-partners-with-the-womens-sports-network-wrr-234/

Welcome to WRR 233 for February 9 through February 15, 2026. This week we are celebrating a massive milestone for Argentina as they claim the SVNS 2 title in Nairobi and move to the top of the international standings. We also have a major update on the 2026 Pacific Four Series, which is set to bring world-class rugby to Sacramento, Kansas City, and Chicago before a historic finale on Australia’s Sunshine Coast. Domestically, we saw league titles clinched in Hong Kong and a record-breaking opening weekend in South Africa. Plus, we are gaining serious momentum on our 20th Anniversary 10K March as we close in on our first big gear drop.Read all the week's women's rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/02/16/argentina-crowned-in-nairobi-valley-rfc-clinch-hk-title-pac4-cities-confirmed-wrr-233/

Welcome to WRR 232 for February 2-8. This week we lead with New Zealand’s back to back sevens glory in Perth and the historic sell out in Nairobi as the SVNS 2 series prepares for a massive Valentine's weekend. On the international stage, a critical report from Jo Currie and BBC Sport details the emotionally damaging experiences of Scotland’s 2025 World Cup squad, while the Welsh Rugby Union faces a potential referendum. Domestically, leagues in Wales, Ireland, France, and Canada saw clinical shutouts as we celebrate 20 years of documenting the game and continue our 10K March and race to 287 against Maddison Levi.Read more: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/02/09/black-ferns-sevens-rule-perth-and-nairobi-svns-2-sells-out-wrr-232/

Welcome to WRR 231 for January 26 through February 1. This week we celebrated twenty years of YSC Rugby, marking two decades of dedicated coverage for the women’s game. In international news, the Black Ferns Sevens dominated the Singapore SVNS to secure their third straight title, while the Wolfhounds became the first team to officially secure a Celtic Challenge playoff spot. We also celebrated a historic domestic milestone in Japan as Yokohama TKM claimed their first ever All Japan Women’s 15s Championship. Finally, we looked ahead to a landmark Anzac Day Test and marked the successful closing of the seed round for Women’s Elite Rugby in the USA.Get all the women's rugby news for the week: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/02/02/black-ferns-sevens-rule-singapore-and-yokohama-tkm-claim-historic-title-wrr-231/

Welcome to WRR 230 for January 12-25. Before we jump into the news, we want to acknowledge the ongoing tragedy in Minneapolis. The recent fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal agents are unacceptable, and we stand with the community in calling for an end to this state-sanctioned violence against its own people.In rugby news, South Africa made history by clinching the inaugural HSBC SVNS 3 title in Dubai, meaning they qualify for the upcoming SVNS 2 Series alongside runners-up Argentina, while Fijiana successfully defended their crown at the McDonald's Fiji Coral Coast 7s. In the 15s game, Gwalia Lightning surged to the top of the Celtic Challenge, and we honor the legendary career of referee Sara Cox following her retirement announcement. On the domestic front, the stage is set for an all-Kanto final in the All Japan Championship, while Uganda has locked in its 2026 Premiership dates and Italy’s Serie A Elite sees a new leader at the summit.Get all the week’s women’s rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/01/25/svns-2-promotion-for-south-africa-argentina-and-wales-players-threaten-strike-wrr-230/

Welcome to WRR 229 for January 5-11. This week, we celebrate a historic sweep in Spain as Colina Clinic El Salvador secures the Iberian Cup to complete their quartet of major titles. We also look at a massive financial boost for Kenya's Olympic journey and the announcement of a landmark first-ever meeting between South Africa and the Black Ferns on South African soil. In the Celtic Challenge, the Wolfhounds continue to assert their dominance by remaining undefeated through three rounds of play. Finally, we round things out with league-leading performances in the USA, Japan, Italy, and Spain as clubs fight for playoff positioning in the second half of their seasons.Read all the women's rugby news for the week: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/01/11/wrr-229/

Welcome to WRR 228 for December 8 to January 4. And we’re back! After taking a few weeks off for the holidays, we have a massive catch-up episode for you. This week, we recap a historic sweep for Thailand at the SEA Games and the high-stakes qualification SVNS 3 battle ahead in Dubai. We also cover major coaching shifts as the Black Ferns and Scotland name new leadership, while Asia Rugby faces a provisional suspension from the World Rugby Council following an investigation into governance and financial failures. In domestic news, Stirling County were crowned champions in Scotland and we look ahead to a massive 2026 global calendar.Read more women's rugby news: https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2026/01/05/thailand-sweeps-sea-games-new-coaches-for-black-ferns-scotland-and-asia-rugby-suspended-wrr-228/

Welcome to WRR 227 for December 1-7. This week, we saw Australia dominate rivals New Zealand to claim the HSBC SVNS Cape Town title, while World Rugby continued to face heat over the controversial Size 4.5 ball trial. In XVs news, USA Rugby named Olympic silver medalist Jack Hanratty as the new Women’s Eagles Head Coach, and World Rugby recommended a new lower tackle height for the community game. Domestically, Gloucester Hartpury and Valsugana maintained their perfect league leads in PWR and the Italian Serie A Elite respectively, while UL Bohemian delivered a massive 102-7 win in the Energia AIL.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/12/08/australia-wins-cape-town-world-rugby-faces-ball-trial-backlash-wrr-227/

Welcome to WRR 2226 for November 24-30. This week was massive for 7s: the Black Ferns crushed Australia for gold in the Dubai SVNS opener, the LIT USA squad won the Women's Elite title, and we locked in the full three-tier SVNS schedule and the spicy Cape Town draw. In XVs news, Ireland announced 35 contracts, France named a new coach, Red Roses legend Abby Dow retired, and we cover the major controversy over World Rugby's size 4.5 ball trial. Plus, we wrap up domestic action for those events and teams that are still in play.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/12/01/black-ferns-dominate-dubai-svns-map-ball-size-trial-wrr-2226/

Welcome to WRR 225 for November 17-23. The RAN 7s title went to Mexico, who qualified for the HSBC SVNS 3 tournament, and New York was announced as a new host city for the HSBC SVNS Series. In International XVs, Hong Kong China lifted the 3 Nations Cup after beating Belgium, while Georgia and Austria secured wins in the Europe Conference. On the domestic front, league leaders UL Bohemian and ASM Romagnat maintained their perfect runs, and WER announced the return of its entire coaching staff for the 2026 season.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/11/24/mexico-wins-ran-7s-and-hong-kong-clinches-3-nations-cup-wrr-225/

Welcome to WRR 224 for November 10-16. This week, South Africa defended their African 7s title, securing crucial qualification for the World Rugby SVNS Division 3 tournament without conceding a single point. New Zealand began the search for a new Black Ferns Head Coach, and Morocco is establishing its first national women's rugby team along with Scotland announcing increased investment for 35 female contracted players. In league action, Stirling County and Watsonians confirmed their places in the Arnold Clark Premiership Grand Final, while several teams clinched titles at the USA Club Championships in the Midwest, NERFU, and Empire unions.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/11/17/wrr-224/

Welcome to WRR 223 for November 3-9. In 7s, Perth has been locked in as the Australian SVNS host for three more years, and the Delta club was crowned the overall Brazilian Super 7s Champion. This week in XVs news, we look at the growing frustration over the Welsh talent drain to England. In Domestic XVs news, Stirling County secured their Grand Final spot in Scotland, while Gloucester Hartpury staged an epic comeback in the PWR, and the Energia AIL saw some ridiculously high-score blowouts.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/11/11/stirlings-final-spot-secured-perth-svns-locked-for-three-years-wrr-223/

Welcome to WRR 222 for October 27-November 2. This week, we continue covering the massive growth in the international game as the 2025 Rugby World Cup finished with 1.1 billion digital impressions, becoming the second-biggest RWC ever on digital and appealing to a younger, more female fanbase. On the 7s front, the HSBC SVNS season will kick off November 29 in Dubai and the Africa 7s qualifier will serve as a qualifier for SVSN 3. In domestic news, the PWR is seeing a 183% spike in attendance, the Bulls Daisies have appointed an all-women coaching staff in South Africa, and playoff races are heating up across the USA, Scotland, France, and Italy.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/11/03/pwr-attendance-soars-183-and-bulls-daisies-appoint-all-women-staff-wrr-222/

Welcome to Women's Rugby Rundown 221 for October 20-26. This week, we celebrated a couple of international champions as Uzbekistan claimed the Asia Rugby Emirates 7s Trophy and Costa Rica took home Gold at the Central American Games in 7s. In XVs action, Sweden secured a win over Finland in the Rugby Europe Trophy. Off the pitch, the week was dominated by major professionalization news, including Welsh Rugby's massive investment into the women's game and the appointment of Gemma Fay as Scottish Rugby's first Managing Director of Women's Rugby. Finally, England legend Emily Scarratt announced her retirement following her team's World Cup win.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/10/27/wrr-121/

Welcome to WRR 220 for October 13-19. This week saw major international stories as Japan reclaimed the Asia Rugby Sevens Series title and the rugby world mourned the passing of Belgium Women’s Sevens coach Warren Abrahams. Off the field, Hollie Davidson made history as she was named to referee an All Blacks Test, and Rugby Canada launched a significant initiative for grassroots empowerment. Domestically, leagues worldwide delivered intense action with huge scorelines: Galwegians and El Salvador RC dominated in Ireland and Spain, Toulouse and Montpellier surged in France, and the final four teams for the Arnold Clark Women’s Premiership were confirmed in Scotland.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/10/20/japan-reclaims-asia-7s-title-scotland-shakes-up-gb-sevens-wrr-220/

Welcome to WRR 219 for October 6-12. This week, we saw a series of contrasting stories surrounding investment in women’s rugby. On one hand, England and Ireland are making big moves with new funding and strategic plans. On the other hand, Rugby Australia is facing heavy criticism for significant budget cuts and a key staff resignation. We also saw some great on-field action, with the Kenya Lionesses winning the Safari 7s, and new seasons in domestic leagues across the USA, Wales, Hong Kong, France, and Canada continuing to heat up.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/10/13/wrr-219/

Welcome to WRR 218 for September 28 to October 5. This week, we'll cover the final World Rugby Rankings of 2025 and the World Rugby Awards Try of the Year and 15s Dream Team of the Year. Waikato were crowned back-to-back winners of the Dr. Farah Palmer Cup, and we'll check in on a few international Sevens tournaments and get updates on domestic competitions around the world.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/10/06/waikato-wins-back-to-back-titles-world-rugby-rankings-shakeup-wrr-218/

Welcome to WRR 217 for September 22-28. This week, we'll recap all the action from the Rugby World Cup, where England was crowned champion and New Zealand took home the bronze. We'll dive into the record-breaking attendance and viewership numbers and discuss the major news stories that emerged during the final week, including the World Rugby Awards, new contracts for Scotland, and the selection of a former USA Eagle as a NASA astronaut candidate. We'll also check in on the latest domestic league action around the world.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/09/29/england-wins-rwc-nz-secures-bronze-wrr-217/

Welcome to WRR 216 for September 15-21. This week, Canada pulled off a huge upset while England’s expected victory set up a dramatic final at the World Cup. The tournament, however, has been tarnished by a major controversy over missed officiating calls. We also cover the launch of a new international tournament, a massive investment into USA Rugby, news from the Springbok and Scottish teams, and a historic draw for Latvia in their first international in 20 years. On the domestic front, we cover the Dr Farah Palmer Cup, Arnold Clark Premiership, USA Club Rugby, and the new AXA Elite 1 championship in France.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/09/21/world-cup-final-set-as-canada-england-advance-wrr-216/

Welcome to Women's Rugby Rundown 215 for September 8-14. The Rugby World Cup quarterfinals saw Canada and New Zealand dominate while France and England advanced to the semifinals in very different fashion. We now have our Final Four teams! We’ll also round up all the Domestic Leagues around the world.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/09/15/canada-england-cruise-as-france-nz-survive-qf-thrillers-wrr-215/

Welcome to WRR 214 for Sep 1-7. We have a packed show this week as the Women's Rugby World Cup pool stage wrapped up, setting the stage for the highly anticipated quarterfinals. Plus, we'll dive into the final results of the International Defence Rugby Competition, where a new champion was crowned, and check in on the Dr. Farah Palmer Cup.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/09/08/world-cup-quarterfinals-set-and-france-wins-idrc-wrr-214/

Welcome to WRR 213 for August 25-31. The Rugby World Cup concluded its second round of pool play with several teams punching their tickets to the quarterfinals. The race for the final knockout spot is wide open after a dramatic draw between the USA and Australia, and with final pool standings still to be determined, the quarterfinal matchups are on the line, setting the stage for an explosive final round. Beyond the qualification battles, we saw history being made with South Africa's landmark win, as well as a flurry of records and milestones being shattered by players across the board. The excitement wasn’t just limited to the RWC, with action from the International Defence Rugby Competition and the Dr Farah Palmer Cup adding to a massive week for the sport.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/09/01/wrr-213/

Welcome to WRR 212 for August 18-24. The Rugby World Cup kicked off with massive crowds, viewership, and even bigger wins. England, Australia, Scotland, Canada, France, Ireland, South Africa, and New Zealand. The opening match between England and the USA drew a tournament-record crowd, while France's game against Italy set a new viewing record with 3.2 million viewers in France. Australia earned their biggest World Cup win in history, and Canada's Julia Schell set a new individual try-scoring record. Even with all the big score lines, underdogs like Brazil and Spain still celebrated historic moments. The tournament is on track to be the most-attended in history, with over 375,000 tickets sold and the final already sold out. We also recap the opening of the International Defence Rugby Championship, and we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/08/25/wrr-212/

Welcome to WRR 211 for August 11-17. The 2025 Rugby World Cup is almost here, with all 16 teams officially welcomed. The tournament is set to kick off this Friday with hosts England facing the USA, where we will see the debut of flashing mouth guards for head injury assessments. Scotland is dealing with a contract dispute as Rhona Lloyd has stated that more than half of the national squad will be without contracts after the tournament. The Welsh Rugby Union’s chief executive, Abi Tierney, is also stepping down following a cancer diagnosis. Funding has been secured for a documentary on the 1991 Women’s World Cup pioneers, and the Red Roses have announced a new partnership with Barbie. While the International Defence Rugby Championship has begun, we are still working to find results, and we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/08/17/one-week-until-the-2025-rugby-world-cup-and-scotlands-contract-controversy-wrr-211/

Welcome to WRR 210 for August 4-10. The USA Club 7s Rugby National Championships ended in dramatic fashion in Madison as the Chicago Lions snatched victory from Chicago North Shore at the final whistle. Fiji, England, Italy, and Canada all closed out their Rugby World Cup preparations with strong wins, while Australia confirmed the absence of sevens star Charlotte Caslick from their tournament squad. In Brazil, Melina secured the inaugural Women’s Cup title, and we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/08/11/chicago-lions-win-usa-club-7s-and-melina-lift-brazil-cup-wrr-210/

Welcome to WRR 209 for July 25 to August 3. It’s been another two whirlwind weeks of Rugby World Cup prep, packed with statement wins and rising momentum. Eight World Cup squads were revealed and final tune-ups delivered across the globe. South Africa stunned the Black Ferns XV in Cape Town, England ran rampant over Spain, and Canada surged past the USA in front of a record home crowd. Ireland, Japan, and the Wallaroos closed out with strong wins, Brazil shut out the Netherlands, and Wales made history with a first-ever win on Australian soil. More warm-up matches are ahead this weekend as we count down to the opening match on August 22, when the USA faces England in Sunderland, and we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/08/04/wrr-209/

Welcome to WRR 208 for June 30 to July 6. Canada opened their South Africa tour with a dominant win over the Springbok women in Pretoria, showing strength even while down a player. Trinidad & Tobago edged the Cayman Islands to secure back-to-back wins. The Black Ferns powered past the Black Ferns XV in Whangārei, setting the tempo from start to finish. The IRFU unveiled plans to launch four contracted provincial women’s teams by 2026, with Lynne Cantwell leading the charge. Shogun sealed the LTI Super 7s Elite Series title after winning the final stop at Bury St Edmunds. Canada East took gold at the 2025 World Police and Fire Games in Birmingham, joined on the podium by the Patriots and USA Unified Command, and we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/07/06/canada-black-ferns-trinidad-tobago-win-shogun-clinches-7s-series-while-canada-east-wins-wpfg-7s-wrr-208/

Welcome to Women’s Rugby Rundown 207 for June 23–29. Trinidad and Tobago edged Mexico in a thriller, but Mexico still walked away with their first RAN XVs title since 2019 by the slimmest of margins. The result helped Trinidad and Tobago jump four spots in the World Rugby Rankings, while Mexico slipped two. In other action, Australia A impressed in a dominant win over Samoa. Ilona Maher earned her first ESPYS nomination, joining a powerhouse lineup that includes Coco Gauff, Simone Biles, and A’ja Wilson. Vicky Dombroski, the only woman to coach the Black Ferns, is featured in the new documentary No Tears on the Field. Denver Onyx wrapped the first season of Women’s Elite Rugby with a statement win over New York to claim the inaugural WER Legacy Cup. Rugby World Cup prep continues with eleven national teams in action soon. Great Britain secured the overall European 7s Championship title despite a strong final-leg push from Poland, and the LIT Super 7s Series Elite heads to its final stop at Bury St Edmunds with the title still on the line. That’s it for this week as we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/07/01/trinidad-stuns-mexico-ilona-earns-espys-nod-denver-onyx-wins-inaugural-wer-legacy-cup-wrr-207/

Welcome to WRR 206 for June 16–22. Cayman secured a historic win over Bermuda in a 10s match, marking a rare international appearance for both teams. Canada named 38 players to a training camp ahead of a two-match tour to South Africa, with some big names returning from injury. Two new projects are reshaping women’s rugby storytelling: a docuseries following Ilona Maher as she chases a spot at the 2025 Rugby World Cup, and The Founding Four documentary honoring the women behind the 1991 World Cup. We’re proud to help preserve the most complete public archive of Women’s Rugby World Cup stats, covering every tournament from 1991 to 2021. The Lilian Amazons made history as the first Fijian women’s team to win a top-tier UK 7s tournament, taking the third stop of the Super Series Elite. Scottish Rugby is rumored to be stepping up to lead a potential full-time Great Britain 7s revival. And all eyes are on the WER Legacy Cup Final this weekend, where Denver and New York will battle for the first title of the new era of professional women’s rugby in the U.S.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/06/23/ilona-maher-docuseries-womens-rwc-archive-preserved-and-sophie-de-goede-returns-wrr-206/

Welcome to WRR 205 for June 9-15. The weekend featured Great Britain claiming gold at the first stop of the 2025 European 7s Championship in Makarska, while Georgia made history with their first series win. Fiji’s Vodafone Fijiana defended their Oceania Rugby Championship title in a thrilling match against Samoa, and South Africa also defended their Rugby Africa Cup title in Madagascar with a perfect record. Brazil’s Yaras achieved the biggest victory in their team’s history with a commanding win over Colombia. Off the field, we reviewed the so-called “studies” World Rugby cited to justify its controversial ban on trans women and found them deeply flawed, while inclusive events continue to show safe, supported participation is possible, and the Kenya Rugby Union faces a deepening governance crisis marked by its chair’s resignation and a World Rugby warning that it will intervene if the situation does not improve. And as always, we round up all the global Premier and Club competitions worldwide.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/06/16/fiji-and-south-africa-defend-titles-great-britain-wins-first-stop-of-rugby-europe-7s-kenya-rugby-union-faces-governance-crisis-wrr-205/

Welcome to WRR 204 for June 2-8. The Vodafone Fijiana opened the Oceania Rugby Championship with a commanding win over Tonga as they defend their title. South Africa began their Rugby Africa Cup defense with a strong victory over Uganda, while the Kenya Lionesses also secured a win over Madagascar. Italy and Scotland are gearing up for key test matches in July and August, with Scotland switching stadiums for their 2026 Six Nations match against England to Murrayfield, aiming to break attendance records. The WER Legacy Cup race tightens as Bay Breakers and New York Exiles battle for the remaining playoff spot with just one week of the regular season left. Shogun secured back-to-back titles at the Shelford 7s with two stops remaining in the LIT Super Series Elite. World Rugby’s revamped SVNS sevens circuit, designed to grow the sport, has instead triggered a chain reaction of cuts by major unions, raising concerns about the future sustainability of sevens. Meanwhile, Bosnia’s first women’s rugby sevens team is preparing for their debut international competition with hopes of qualifying for the 2032 Olympics.🔗 https://scrumhalfconnection.com/2025/06/09/wrr-204/