England back row Marlie Packer says defence coach Shaun Edwards' surprise move into the Red Roses set-up was partly inspired by his late mother Phyllis Edwards. Edwards has joined the world champions for the remainder of their autumn campaign after a six-and-a-half year stint with France.

"He told us a little story, telling us why he wanted to be here," said Packer. "He was saying about his mum not ever being able to have the opportunity to play, and that she would have loved to have done so." Phyllis Edwards worked as a hairdresser in Wigan and was a trusted advisor throughout her son's career. She died in March 2021.

Edwards has won a total of seven Six Nations crowns across stints with Wales and France. "He's got more Six Nations than quite a few of the girls, to be fair to him!" added Packer. "To have that calibre of coach to want to come and work with the Red Roses, just showcases where the women's game is going."

England's winning run was halted on 39 successive Tests last weekend when Canada held them to a 26-26 draw at Sandy Park. England take on New Zealand at Allianz Stadium on Saturday, before matches against Canada in Ottawa and Toronto, and a Test against the United States.