The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is set to be the most thrilling edition yet, with 16 teams competing for glory in England. The tournament kicks off on August 22 with hosts England facing the United States in Sunderland. Here's everything you need to know about the teams, fixtures, and key players.

Tournament Overview

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup features 16 teams, the largest in the tournament's history. England, the No. 1 ranked team, are favorites to win their first title since 2014, riding on a 27-game winning streak. Defending champions New Zealand, along with France and Canada, are also strong contenders.

Key Players to Watch

• Ilona Maher (USA): The star of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Maher is set to make her mark in her first major 15-a-side tournament.
• Ellie Kildunne (England): The dynamic fullback aims to emulate Chloe Kelly's impact in the World Cup.
• Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand): The legendary winger has come out of retirement to defend the Black Ferns' title.

Team Squads and Fixtures

Pool A

• England: Favorites with a star-studded squad including captain Zoe Aldcroft and key players like Emily Scarratt and Marlie Packer.
• United States: Outsiders led by Ilona Maher, hoping to make a splash in their opening match against England.
• Australia: A strong team with Siokapesi Palu as captain, aiming to challenge the top teams.
• Samoa: Underdogs with a passionate squad led by Sui Pauaraisa.

Pool B

• Canada: Contenders with Fabiola Forteza and a balanced squad aiming for the title.
• Scotland: Outsiders with Helen Nelson leading the charge.
• Wales: A determined team co-captained by Alex Callender and Kate Williams.
• Fiji: A spirited squad led by Alfreda Fisher, ready to compete.

Pool C

• Ireland: Outsiders with a mix of experience and youth, captained by Sam Monaghan and Edel McMahon.
• New Zealand: Defending champions with Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Ruahei Demant leading the charge.
• Spain: A growing team captained by Laura Delgado, aiming to make an impact.
• Japan: A resilient squad led by Iroha Nagata, ready to challenge the best.

Pool D

• France: Contenders with Manae Feleu as captain, aiming to win their first World Cup.
• Italy: Outsiders led by Elisa Giordano, hoping to surprise the top teams.
• South Africa: A determined squad captained by Nolusindiso Booi, ready to compete.
• Brazil: Underdogs led by Eshyllen Coimbra, aiming to make their mark.

Fixtures Highlights

• August 22: England vs. United States (Sunderland)
• August 24: New Zealand vs. Spain (London)
• September 6: England vs. Australia (Twickenham)
• September 27: Final at Twickenham

Conclusion

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup promises to be a historic event, showcasing the best of women's rugby. With expanded teams, fierce competition, and star players, this tournament is not to be missed. Stay tuned for all the action and drama as the world's best teams battle for the ultimate prize in rugby.