BBC to show England women’s autumn internationals

The BBC has picked up the rights show live coverage of England’s two women’s autumn international rugby union matches against France in November.

Both Test matches between Europe’s top two international teams in the women’s game will be broadcast on BBC Two.

It is the first time that the corporation has broadcast live coverage of the England women’s rugby union team on one of its main network TV channels, having previously shown selected England’s home matches in the Women’s Six Nations prior to 2016 via the Red Button.

Grenoble will play host to the first Test on 14 November, kicking off at 1.15pm UK time, while the second Test will be held at Twickenham, before the England men’s match against Ireland in the Autumn Nations Cup, on 21 November with kick-off at 12 noon.

The Red Roses have a good record against the French and are riding high on confidence after clinching the Women’s Six Nations title in October for a record-extending 16th time.

The two sides last met back February, prior to the coronavirus pandemic, with England winning a fiercely contested encounter 19-13. Emily Scarratt scored two tries that day as the visitors extended their winning sequence against the French to five games.

Lee McKenzie will present the BBC’s coverage of the first Test, while Sonja McLaughlan hosts the second Test live from Twickenham. Match commentary on both Tests will be provided by Sara Orchard.

Commenting on the BBC’s coverage, Nicky Ponsford, RFU head of women’s performance, said:

“We are delighted that the BBC will be showing our two autumn matches. We have two strong teams competing and expect two tough matches.

“We know how important visibility is in growing the women’s game and will be aiming to put on a show for everyone watching from home.”

As well as live TV coverage on BBC Two, all of the action will be available to watch online via live streaming on the BBC Sport Website and BBC iPlayer.

For a full list of all forthcoming major live rugby union matches on the box, visit SOTB’s dedicated rugby union TV listings page.

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SATURDAY 14th NOVEMBER

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SATURDAY 21st NOVEMBER

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