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Venner and Robinson among 32 Red Roses contracts
England have awarded 32 full-time Red Roses contracts for the 2026-27 season, with Gloucester-Hartpury wing Mia Venner and Exeter scrum-half Flo Robinson receiving their first deals. The announcement reflects continued competition within the squad after England’s recent Six Nations success and ahead of an international programme including fixtures against Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States.
Venner, 24, returned to international prominence during this year’s Six Nations after missing the 2025 World Cup squad, while Robinson adds specialist depth at scrum-half behind Natasha Hunt and Lucy Packer. Second row Lilli Ives Campion also receives a first full-time contract, while six players, including teenager Demelza Short, have transition deals; 32 players are contracted in total, with several players included despite pregnancy or recent maternity leave.
In short
- Venner and Robinson receive first full-time England contracts.
- England award 32 Red Roses deals for 2026-27.
- Six players, including Demelza Short, receive transition contracts.
Explained simply
The Red Roses are England’s women’s rugby union team, run by the Rugby Football Union. Full-time contracts give selected players paid support to train and prepare for international matches, while places remain competitive as the squad changes from season to season.
Mia Venner plays on the wing for Gloucester-Hartpury, and Flo Robinson is a scrum-half for Exeter. Scrum-halves help link the forwards and backs; England already have experienced players in that position, including Natasha Hunt and Lucy Packer.
The contracts sit within England’s preparations for a season that includes matches against Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States. They also show how the team balances established international players with those seeking a regular place in the squad.