England's World Cup-winning captain Zoe Stratford has given birth to her first child, a baby girl, on Wednesday. Stratford - nee Aldcroft - welcomed the newborn, who remains nameless, following England's victory over Canada in the World Cup final in September 2025. The 29-year-old joined Sale Sharks from Gloucester-Hartpury in the summer after playing a pivotal role in their rise as a dominant force in women's domestic rugby.
Sale Sharks celebrated the news on Instagram, calling it 'The most amazing news!' Stratford was named World Player of the Year in 2021 and co-captained Gloucester-Hartpury to three consecutive Premiership Women's Rugby titles. She is the third England women's player to announce pregnancy this year, joining Bristol's Lark Atkin-Davies and Abbie Ward. Additionally, teammates Marlie Packer and Rosie Galligan announced they are expecting a baby together, with Galligan due to give birth this month.
Meg Jones, who became England captain after Stratford's pregnancy announcement, has advocated for fertility support and egg freezing access for players.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing