John Mitchell named as England head coach after Simon Middleton departure

Mitchell is currently defence coach for the Japan men’s side and will take up his new role after the Rugby World Cup later this year.

John Mitchell will succeed Simon Middleton as England women’s head coach (John Walton/PA)

New Zealander John Mitchell has been named as the new head coach of the England women’s team.

Mitchell, who has had two spells on the coaching team with England’s men’s side in a lengthy career, is currently defence coach for the Japan men’s side and will take up his new role after the Rugby World Cup later this year.