‘Me, but less weird’ – Jones on Red Roses’ captaincy

New England captain Meg Jones says she aims to be a relatable leader, but admits she may tone down some parts of her character in her new role.

Jones has been promoted to lead the world champion Red Roses after skipper Zoe Stratford announced that she is expecting her first child in September.

“I’m still going to be me, but probably less weird!” she told BBC Sport.

“Probably a bit more serious at times, but I want to keep that playful nature.

“I want to be relatable because growing up I always thought professionalism and being the top of your game meant being really serious.

“It’s actually quite the opposite for me – when I’m doing well is when I’m enjoying myself.”

The 29-year-old, who was nominated for World Player of the Year in 2025, is part of a clutch of England players who celebrate scores with a now-familiar ‘cowboy’ dance.

Jones has also co-hosted the Barely Rugby podcast with team-mate Hannah Botterman and comedian Harriet Kemsley, discussing life away from the pitch, while her honesty about her grief in the wake of her parents’ deaths has earned her praise.

“Emily Scarratt is remarkable. She’s just always had a natural aura about her and I think probably the most that the bit I’ve learned from her and other captains as well would be to not jump to a conclusion straight away,” said Jones.

“I’m quite irrational – straight to the point, let’s just get it fixed – whereas Scaz is a bit more rational and ‘let’s have a think’.

“That’s probably what I am going to have to lean into a little bit more.”

Jones does not foresee any difficulties in motivating her team-mates after the high of September’s world title triumph.

“England have actually never won a Six Nations after a World Cup win – men or women – so to do that would be writing more history again,” she said.

“We pride ourselves on continuing to win and the competitive nature in this group is just unreal.”