The RFU has announced that the Japan men’s defence coach John Mitchell will take over as the England women’s head coach.

Mitchell’s CV is extensive including leading New Zealand’s men to the semi-finals of the 2003 World Cup.

He was the England men’s forwards coach under then head coach, Sir Clive Woodward. When Eddie Jones took over, he returned as England defence coach.

John will take over the Red Roses later this year after the Men’s World Cup campaign.

For now forwards coach, Louis Deacon, will lead the team through the World Rugby’s new global women’s competition WXV.

Former England captain, Sarah Hunter, will be joining the coaching set up as transition coach to work with both the senior women’s team and pathway programme, with a focus on forwards, breakdown and defensive systems.