Mitchell Open to Leading Historic Women's Lions Tour in 2027

England Women's Head Coach John Mitchell has expressed his keen interest in potentially taking the helm for the inaugural British and Irish Lions women's tour to New Zealand in 2027, signalling a significant step forward for women's rugby.

A Groundbreaking Opportunity

The prospect of a Women's British and Irish Lions tour, a concept long championed by fans and players alike, is moving closer to reality. With discussions reportedly progressing, the potential appointment of a head coach is a key piece of the puzzle. England Women's current head coach, John Mitchell, has thrown his hat into the ring, stating he would be "very open" to the role, a move that has been met with considerable excitement within the rugby community.

Mitchell, a seasoned coach with a wealth of experience across both men's and women's rugby, including a stint coaching the New Zealand men's team, brings a formidable CV to the table. His current focus is on guiding the Red Roses through their Six Nations campaign and building towards the 2025 Rugby World Cup on home soil. However, the allure of leading a combined Lions squad, representing the pinnacle of women's rugby talent from across the Home Nations, is clearly a significant draw.

What makes the Lions so special?

The British and Irish Lions represent a unique and prestigious entity in the rugby world. Historically, the men's tours have been epic battles against Southern Hemisphere powerhouses, forging legends and creating unforgettable narratives. The idea of extending this legacy to the women's game, particularly with a tour to rugby-mad New Zealand, is a prospect that resonates deeply.

Mitchell himself acknowledged the magnitude of such an undertaking. "It's a massive honour to coach any team," he told the BBC. "If it came up, and the opportunity was there, I'd be very open to it. It's a huge part of rugby history and to be involved in the first women's tour would be incredibly special."

Mitchell's Vision for the Red Roses and Beyond

Under Mitchell's guidance, England Women have continued to be a dominant force. He took over the reins from Simon Middleton in 2022, inheriting a squad brimming with talent and a strong winning mentality. His tenure has seen a continued emphasis on tactical innovation and player development, aiming to keep the Red Roses at the forefront of the global game.

His current contract with the RFU runs until after the 2025 World Cup, meaning a potential Lions role would require careful planning and agreement. However, Mitchell's forward-thinking approach is evident. He understands the importance of continuity and building strong foundations, principles that would undoubtedly be crucial for a nascent Women's Lions program.

The 2027 tour to New Zealand would be a significant challenge. The Black Ferns are the reigning world champions and possess a rich rugby heritage. A Lions squad, drawn from England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, would need to gel quickly and perform at an exceptionally high level to compete. This is precisely the kind of high-stakes, high-reward environment that appeals to coaches like Mitchell.

The Importance of the Lions for Women's Rugby

The establishment of a Women's Lions tour is more than just another series of matches; it's a statement of intent. It signifies a commitment to the growth and professionalisation of the women's game on a global scale. Such a tour would provide invaluable experience for players, elevate the profile of the sport, and inspire a new generation of female rugby stars.

The potential for a tour to New Zealand, a country with a deep-seated passion for rugby, is particularly exciting. Imagine the atmosphere, the media attention, and the sheer spectacle of a Lions team taking on the Black Ferns on their home turf. It would be a landmark event, capturing the imagination of fans worldwide.

"It's about what's best for the game," Mitchell stated, hinting at the broader implications of such a tour. "We need to continue to push the boundaries and provide opportunities for our players to test themselves against the very best. A Lions tour would certainly do that."

Navigating the Path to 2027

While Mitchell's enthusiasm is clear, the practicalities of such an appointment are complex. The Lions concept requires buy-in and collaboration from all four Home Unions. Discussions are ongoing, and the exact structure and timeline for a potential tour are still being finalised. Key decisions regarding the selection process, coaching staff, and commercial arrangements will need to be made.

Mitchell's current focus on England's immediate goals is understandable. The 2025 World Cup on home soil is a massive opportunity for the Red Roses to claim world glory. However, his willingness to consider the Lions role suggests a long-term vision for the progression of women's rugby in Britain and Ireland. Could he be the man to lay the foundations for this new era of international competition?

Who else might be in contention?

While Mitchell has put himself forward, it's likely that other prominent coaches in the women's game would also be considered. Figures like Scotland's Bryan Easson or Wales' Ioan Cunningham, who have led their respective nations with distinction, could also be strong candidates. The selection committee will have a difficult but enviable task in choosing the right leader for such a historic venture.

The journey to the first Women's Lions tour will undoubtedly involve challenges. Yet, the potential rewards are immense. For John Mitchell, the opportunity to lead such a groundbreaking initiative would be a career highlight, and for the sport of women's rugby, it would represent a monumental leap forward.

As the wheels of rugby administration continue to turn, the prospect of John Mitchell at the helm of a Women's British and Irish Lions touring party in 2027 is a tantalizing one. It speaks to a growing ambition and a recognition of the incredible talent and potential within the women's game. The rugby world will be watching with bated breath.