The Red Roses have once again proven themselves to be the elite of women's rugby, defying the odds and securing an historic fifth successive Grand Slam in Bordeaux. But what makes this achievement even more remarkable is the context in which it occurred. Despite entering the tournament as world champions, the Red Roses faced a period of unsettling change, with key players missing due to pregnancy, injuries, and the small matter of a Grand Slam decider on foreign soil. Yet, they persevered, showing the wherewithal, tenacity, and determination to overcome these challenges and secure yet more history. This raises a deeper question: what makes a team truly great, and how do they maintain their dominance over such a long period? In my opinion, the Red Roses' success is a testament to the power of adaptability, the strength of their culture, and the depth of their talent. This team has shown an incredible ability to mix and match players, bringing new people in and proving that English rugby is in a league of its own. But what does this mean for the future of women's rugby? Can anyone stop the Red Roses? And what does this achievement say about the state of the sport as a whole? These are the questions that linger as the Red Roses continue to write their own history, leaving their rivals in the dust and inspiring a new generation of players.
