Women's Rugby
Spencer stands down as England skipper
ESPNscrum Staff
January 10, 2011
England captain Catherine Spencer reflects on her side's defeat, England v New Zealand, Women's World Cup Final, Twickenham Stoop, England September 5, 2010
Catherine Spencer has stood down as captain of England Women © Getty Images
Enlarge
Related Links
Teams: England

Catherine Spencer has stepped down as captain of England Women.

The 31-year-old No.8 has been in charge since 2007, when she succeeded Susan Day, and led her country to three successive Six Nations titles as well as the final of last year's Women's Rugby World Cup, where England narrowly lost out to New Zealand's Black Ferns 13-10.

Spencer plans to continue her playing career and will be available for next month's Six Nations.

"My decision to stand down as England captain has, without doubt, been one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make," she said. "I have become very attached to the captaincy over the last three years so it is extremely hard to let go of something that I care very deeply about.

"I wish my successor all of my support; only when they become England captain will they fully understand what an incredible honour it is and only then will they experience the amazing emotions that come with leading an England team out on to a pitch."

England head coach Gary Street added: "I would personally like to thank Catherine for the excellent way she has conducted herself on and off the pitch - she has been a fantastic role model for any aspiring player.

"This season gives Catherine the opportunity to concentrate purely on her rugby and I am sure she will support the new captain and continue to be an inspiring influence in the squad."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices