RFU statement: England women's team coaching staff update

Backs coach Scott Bemand is to leave his role with the England women’s rugby team after the 2023 Six Nations, but forwards coach Louis Deacon will continue coaching a team that is currently searching for a new head coach.

Simon Middleton, who led England to the recent World Cup final in Auckland, confirmed on February 6 that he will step down at the end of the upcoming Six Nations and an update has now been provided regarding the future of two of his key lieutenants.

An RFU statement read: “Scott Bemand has decided he will step down from his role as England women backs coach at the end of the 2023 TikTok Women’s Six Nations. Bemand was appointed lead coach of the England Women XVs team in 2015, working alongside Simon Middleton, who initially held a joint role with sevens.

“The former scrum-half was part of the coaching set-up as backs coach who guided England to their record-breaking 30 match-winning run and two Rugby World Cup finals in 2017 and 2022. During his spell to date, he has won five Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams.

“Meanwhile, having spent the past 18 months with the Red Roses, Louis Deacon will remain with the Red Roses coaching team leading towards the 2025 Rugby World Cup.”

Bemand said: “It has been a privilege to coach my country and be a part of the Red Roses programme. Two World Cups, Six Nations titles and wins in France and on the 2017 tour of New Zealand have been particular highlights and memories I will cherish. The women’s game has grown significantly.

“We have a fantastic group of integrated players and staff involved in a world-class programme who have always looked to drive it forward and I wish them all the very best moving forwards. After eight years in the role, it is time for a fresh voice for the group and I am looking forward to the next challenge.”

RFU performance director Conor O’Shea added: “All of us will want to send Scott off in the manner he deserves. He has given an incredible amount to the Red Roses and to the game in England but he, like Simon, feels that post-Six Nations is the right time for a fresh voice.

“On a personal level, we will all miss the enthusiasm and energy that Scott brings to the job every day.”