Shaun Edwards joins England women in short-term coaching role

Shaun Edwards has started a short-term coaching consultancy role with England women.

It is understood the 59-year-old will work with current Red Roses defence coach Sarah Hunter for the rest of their WXV Global Series matches, starting with New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on Saturday.

The news comes after England's 39-Test winning streak ended with a 26-26 draw against Canada last weekend.

Englishman Edwards is one of the most decorated coaches in rugby union. He recently left his role as France men's defence coach, where he won three Six Nations titles.

He has never previously worked for England's men or women.

His playing career in rugby league saw him win 36 caps for Great Britain before coaching success with London Wasps and Wales and a six-year stint with France.

On the appointment of Edwards, England head coach John Mitchell said: "Since his time with France ended, we have had a conversation about our game, and he expressed an interest in working in an international women's set-up for the first time.

"He has a huge amount of respect for the Red Roses and what we stand for; he sees it as a privilege to join our environment.

"His coaching credentials are exceptional and his experience at the highest level of the game speaks for itself.

"Defensively, Sarah Hunter is relishing the opportunity to learn from him, alongside the rest of our coaching group, as we head into another exciting Test match against New Zealand."

Last week, Edwards expressed his desire to return to coaching and be a part of next year's men's Six Nations.

"I'm def­in­itely open to offers now, until I sort out a full-time role," he told the Daily Mail.

"I'm a proud Englishman and everybody loves to represent their country, don't they? I'm no different."