England centurion and Red Roses legend Emily Scarratt has today announced her retirement from playing rugby at all levels.
Scarratt’s extraordinary career has spanned more than 17 years at the top of the game, after making her England debut in 2008 against the USA – the team against whom she also played her last test.
Since then, she has earned 119 caps, won two Rugby World Cups, lifted 11 Six Nations titles, represented Great Britain at the 2016 Rio Olympics as captain, and claimed Commonwealth bronze with England Sevens.
In 2019, she was crowned World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year.
She ends her career as the player who has scored the most points in Red Roses history (754) through 54 tries, 158 conversions and 56 penalties. She is third on the all-time England women’s caps list and on the all time tries scored tally.
Just weeks ago, Scarratt became the first English player — male or female — to play in five Rugby World Cups, a fitting final chapter for one of the sport’s all-time greats.
A world-class centre and inspirational leader, Scarratt’s blend of skill, composure, and consistency made her one of the most respected and admired players in world rugby.
She began her playing career aged five at Leicester Forest and went on to play for Lichfield and Loughborough Lightning.
Off the field, she has become a familiar and influential voice through her media work with TNT Sports and her popular podcast The Good, The Scaz & The Rugby.
While stepping away from playing, Scarratt will remain part of the rugby family.
Having already begun her coaching journey with Loughborough Lightning in Premiership Women’s Rugby, she will take on a specialist coaching and mentoring role with the RFU this season, supporting player development across the England pathways and helping nurture the next generation of talent.
Emily Scarratt said: “It’s been the greatest privilege to wear the England shirt and to represent my country for so many years. Rugby has given me everything; incredible teammates, memories, and experiences I’ll carry with me forever.
“I still love the game, but the time feels right to step away. You don’t always get the chance in sport to make that decision for yourself, and I feel so lucky to do so on my own terms, proud of everything I’ve been part of.
“From my first cap in 2008 to walking out in front of more than 80,000 people at a World Cup final, the journey has been incredible. To have witnessed and played a part in the transformation of women’s rugby from amateur to professional is something I’m immensely proud of.
“I want to say a huge thank you to my family; my Mum, my Dad and my brother Joe for their support right from the start – from playing at Leicester Forest all the way to the Allianz Stadium, you have been amazing.
“To all those who have supported me from my teachers, to my coaches and teammates at my first club through to Lichfield, Loughborough Lightning and England– thank you for everything. Thank you too to the amazing fans of women’s rugby who have grown and grown in numbers and who have always been part of what makes playing for England so special.
“While it’s the right moment to stop playing, I’m really excited to stay involved with the RFU and to help shape the future of the game. The women’s game is in an amazing place, and I’m proud to still be part of its journey.”
Head Coach John Mitchell said: “Emily is a once-in-a-generation player. Her quality, her calmness under pressure, and her ability to lead by example set the standard for everyone around her.
“There was no better example of this than the role she played during the recent World Cup, where she added immense value off the field, despite not playing as much as she might have hoped for – that is just the kind of special person that she is.
“She’s had a huge impact on the Red Roses and on women’s rugby globally, and we’re thrilled she’ll continue to share that experience through a different role.”
RFU CEO Bill Sweeney said: “Emily’s contribution to English rugby cannot be overstated — on and off the field she has been a model professional, a leader, and a role model for thousands of girls who have picked up the ball because of her.
“We’re delighted that she’ll remain part of the England Rugby family in the season ahead and continue to help shape its future.”
With thanks to the RFU
