Red Rose Burton to lead PWR players board

Abi Burton, a renowned PWR player leadership group, has been elected as the women’s back row captain for England and the Trailfinders.

The Rugby Players Association (RPA), an elite players’ union, will establish the Women’s Rugby Board under Burton’s leadership. He was a member of the Red Roses squad that won the Women’s Rugby World Cup in September.

Three years after being put in a coma as a result of a serious immune condition attacking her brain, the 25-year-old won the Rugby World Cup.

Burton praised his victory as “the first women’s rugby board chair.”

“I’m looking forward to working with the board and the RPA to represent players across the women’s game, and it’s an important opportunity to ensure players’ voices are heard.”

According to the RPA, the new separate women’s board will ensure that women’s players are better represented and equipped to handle “specific challenges and opportunities” faced by them.

Jenny Hesketh, the full-back for the Bristol Bears and Wales, and Emily Tuttosi, who played for Canada against England in the final of last year’s World Cup, have been elected vice-chairs.

Representatives of the Women’s Rugby Board for the 2025–26 season

Jenny Hesketh, the vice-chair, is the bears’ representative.

Emily Tuttosi, Exeter Chiefs

Sam Monaghan of Gloucester Hartpury

Harlequins: Lagi Tuima

Grace Deane for Leicester Tigers

Elis Martin, Loughborough Lightning

Tysh Harper, Sale Sharks

Ella Wyrwas, Saracens