Women’s Six Nations 2026: Four-try Marlie Packer ‘doesn’t go away’ – John Mitchell
After missing out on selection against France in last year’s Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam, Marlie Packer’s remarkable international career may appear to be coming to an end to some.
The 36-year-old, who lost the England captaincy to Zoe Stratford at the start of last year, had fallen down the rankings and was fighting for a place in her own World Cup squad.
Packer continued to play in the tournament but remained on the sidelines and did not feature in any of the qualifying matches in which England triumphed.
Less than a week away from winning the two-time World Cup, he announced that he “won’t be hanging up his shoes anytime soon.”
Despite falling behind player of the match Sadia Kabeya in the World Cup final, the Saracens forward said he has a contract until June 2026 and feels fitter than ever.
It was a good decision to continue. The Red Roses have secured another Grand Slam decider against France next week thanks to Saturday’s 61-33 victory over Italy, spearheaded by Packer’s four tries.
His performance earned him the player of the match award, as did his two tries against Wales, with the experienced forward taking advantage of injuries and pregnancy disrupting John Mitchell’s starting pack.
“My secret weapon is that I enjoy it and it puts a smile on my face,” Packer told BBC Sport.
“I’m getting the minutes. Sadia Kabeya has endorsed me for the last few years but fair play, I have an opportunity now and I’m enjoying it. I’m smiling and there’s no pressure.”
At Parma, Packer showed impressive acceleration with the opening try and then proceeded to the line for three more tries, passing several Italian defenders to score his fourth.
Despite being the oldest player in the squad, Packer will play a decisive role against France next Sunday at the 42,115-capacity Stade Atlantique in Bordeaux.
“Marlie’s not leaving, is she?” Mitchell told BBC Sport when asked about the winger No. 115, who has led his country to back-to-back Grand Slams in 2024.
“After the World Cup, ‘Where will I sit?’ he asked. And I said, ‘Marlie, you’re one of the best sevens in the country, and if you’re happy with that, I’m happy with it.’
“He is very determined and has achieved a lot. All the standards we have now were largely shaped by his leadership style.”
England captain Megan Jones also had praise for her former skipper, who recorded 12 tackles and covered 92 meters from 14 carries against Italy.
“He has a never-say-die attitude and it’s next level. Even when he’s walking, he’s 100% moving,” Jones added.
