Women’s Rugby World Cup: How England 2025 will mark a breakthrough moment

Horrox says England 2025 is a chance to consolidate a burgeoning game and propel women’s rugby to new levels, before future World Cups in Australia in 2029 and the United States in 2033.

“The time is certainly now,” she added. “The time is now for women’s rugby, for women’s sport. We are part of a broader, social and sporting movement and are proud to be so, but I think this event will re-engineer the future of rugby.

“It is hugely important that we make the most of this opportunity in front of us now over the next six weeks.”

The hype might stick in the throat for some.

While hosts and favourites England are reaping the rewards of heavy investment in their women’s programme, Scotland’s preparations have been hampered by a contract dispute between their players and union.

Wales went through similar last summer, in the aftermath of a sexism scandal at the Welsh Rugby Union

Plenty of nations are on even slimmer finances and some lop-sided scorelines between professionals and amateurs are guaranteed.

There is still work to be done off the pitch.

While the proportion of women in the various coaching set-ups has doubled since the last Rugby World Cup, only three of the 16 nations are led by women.

One of those – France’s Gaelle Mignot – is part of a co-head coach arrangement as well.

But, overall, the arc of the tournament’s history bends towards a better place.

When England took part in their welcome ceremony in Sunderland last Saturday, they carried a little reminder of that fact.

Inside the lining of their jackets, at their backs, in small red text, was the name of every Red Rose that had gone before and endured a less equitable, lower-profile game.

Sue Day, Red Rose number 73, was among them.