England Women, who have dominated the tournament for the last six years and are the reigning Grand Slam champions, will return to the home of England rugby for a crucial Six Nations encounter against fierce rivals Wales. With England Men also renewing their rivalries with Wales on the same day, kick off 4pm, rugby fans will be in for a real feast of world class rugby.
The BBC, official broadcasters of the RBS 6 Nations, have also once again pledged their support to the women’s championship, showing the England versus Wales match live on the BBC Red Button and the BBC Sport website whilst also providing highlights coverage and news throughout the tournament.
The RFU’s Chief Commercial Officer, Sophie Goldschmidt, said: “We are delighted to announce that the England Women’s versus Wales Six Nations Championship match will be included as part of the RFU’s home Six Nations programme.
“Our partners at the BBC will also be covering the game live, underlining the growing interest and enthusiasm for the women’s game globally on the back of the most successful Women’s Rugby World Cup ever in 2010. I am sure that the game will be a great contest between two fiercely competitive teams.”
The WRU’s Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis, added: “I am delighted women’s rugby is to get this vitally important boost. I applaud the RFU for recognising the importance of this fixture by deciding to host the game at the home of English rugby in Twickenham. The enormous boost of securing live coverage on the BBC is also bound to deliver powerful benefits to women’s rugby throughout the UK.
“Women’s internationals between Wales and England already have an important place in the sporting calendar but this game will now add another dynamic to the attention the match attracts. I have watched some great women’s games between the two countries and I am certain that supporters who travel to Twickenham or watch the game on the BBC will enjoy a great rugby spectacle.”
Carl Hicks, BBC Rugby Union Editor, added: “We’re delighted to be once again showing a key match from the Women’s Six Nations on the red button. As with 2010 we’ll be following the narrative of the whole tournament with weekly highlights online and on TV, and all the news throughout the five weekends. The women’s tournament is an important part of the BBC’s RBS 6 Nations coverage.”
The England versus Wales match, which will see free entry for rugby fans to the stadium after the final whistle of the men’s match, is the first home fixture for England Women in this championship. They will also play host to Ireland on March 17th at Esher RFC in the final round of games.
