Steph Else is latest England Red Roses prospect off the Scarborough RUFC production line
Steph Else is continuing to follow in the footsteps of her more illustrious Scarborough RUFC team-mate, Zoe Straftord (nee Aldcroft).
The 22-year-old - who like World Cup-winning England captain Stratford plays in the second row or back row - is one of 11 uncapped players named in John Mitchell’s first Red Roses squad since their global triumph in September.
Scarborough graduate Else - who also plays club rugby alongside Stratford at Gloucester Hartpury - is part of the first training camp ahead of April’s Six Nations.
Born in Staintondale, Else came from a rugby-playing family and first played the game down at Scarborough RUFC aged four.
The Red Roses, who beat Canada 33-13 in the World Cup final on September 27, begin 2026 on Saturday, April 11, when Ireland visit Allianz Stadium Twickenham in the opening round of the Six Nations.
Else is joined by Jasmine Adonri, Keevy Fitzpatrick, Haidee Head, Hayley Jones, Haineala Lutui, Annabel Meta and Nicole Wythe as uncapped forwards in the squad, with Millie David, Sophie Hopkins and Sarah Parry the potential international debutants among the backs.
The group, which assembled on Monday at Pennyhill Park in Surrey, contains all of England’s World Cup-winning squad, aside from retired pair Emily Scarratt and Abby Dow.
Scarborough-born captain Aldcroft has been named under her married name, Zoe Stratford.
Mitchell said: “2025 was a memorable year for everyone involved with the Red Roses, and one that will go down in history for rugby in this country.
“As we enter a new cycle, this camp will focus on aligning our communication and resetting our culture to win.
“It is natural for a rugby cycle to go through regeneration which presents exciting opportunities for young players over the next four years.
“The quicker they can adapt and contribute to the environment will enhance their opportunities.”