Red Roses, Motherhood, and a Legacy for All: A Chat with Abbie Ward

15 October 2025

The dust has barely settled on a spectacular few weeks for English rugby. After two heartbreaking runner-up finishes in previous editions, the Red Roses finally claimed the ultimate prize on home soil. For lock Abbie Ward, the victory was the culmination of a three-year "whirlwind" that saw the team maintain a historic 33-game winning streak.

The Twickenham Effect
The final at Twickenham was more than just a match; it was a record-breaking spectacle. "Stepping off the bus to... it felt like all 82,000 fans were there lining the walkway," Abbie recalls. While the team went behind early to a resilient Canada side, Abbie explains that the group remained composed. "We’re used to being under a lot of pressure... we trust the plan, we trust the process".

That process led to a 33-13 victory, but for Abbie, the celebrations were equally important. "You’ve got to celebrate hard, haven't you?" she laughs, referencing the team’s post-tournament trip to Ibiza.

Hallie and the Red Roses "Duty Roster"
Perhaps the most inspiring part of Abbie's journey has been her return to the pinnacle of the sport as a mother. Abbie was the first player to benefit from the RFU’s groundbreaking maternity policy, returning to the squad just 17 weeks after giving birth to her daughter, Hallie.

She admits that managing the "balancing act" requires immense support. She shared a heartwarming story from a match against Samoa where her husband was away coaching. "Hallie ended up coming to the game solely in the Red Roses' care," Abbie explains. "Amy Cokayne and Alex Matthews were on duty all morning... in the stands carrying the porta-potty while I was warming up!".

This culture of support is what Abbie believes sets women’s sport apart. "It’s acknowledged: yeah, everyone has different lives... Abbie’s a mum, Hallie is part of the team".

Building a Legacy: "See it to be it"
For Abbie, winning the World Cup was only "goal number one." Goal number two is ensuring that this moment creates a lasting wave of momentum, similar to the "Lionesses effect" seen in football.

"Growing up, I didn’t have many female rugby role models. I didn’t know there was an England team. You talk about ‘see it to be it.’ It’s really important that as players we are putting ourselves out there so young girls and boys can see what amazing role models there are."

She also stresses the importance of showing personality beyond the pitch, whether it’s Ellie Kildunne’s fashion sense or Sarah Bern’s music taste, to help fans connect with the players as individuals.

The Professionalism Gap
While celebrating England’s success, Abbie remains vocal about the need for global growth. She highlights the incredible story of the Canadian team, who reached the final despite being largely semi-professional and requiring crowdfunding to compete. "I’d love to see more investment. I’d love to see more teams go professional... to support their women".

As the focus shifts back to the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) season, Abbie is inviting fans to keep the momentum going. "Bring your whole family down... it’s a place for everybody".

To hear the full, unedited chat with Abbie Ward—including her advice for young girls wanting to pick up a ball—watch the full interview on our YouTube channel.