England have just dropped their 32-player squad for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup – and while the team looks strong and stacked with talent, fans online have one big question: where is Mia Venner?
Overview
Simon Middleton’s successor, John Mitchell, has named a power-packed squad full of experience and young firepower ahead of England’s home World Cup. There’s a lot to like – Emily Scarratt is back, there’s a solid balance across the back row, and the Red Roses are clearly in “win now” mode. But one name missing has set social media alight.
Venner, the 23-year-old Gloucester-Hartpury star who’s impressed in both the Prem and England camps, hasn’t made the cut – and fans are not happy.
What You Need to Know
- England have announced their 32-player squad for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
- Emily Scarratt returns after injury to bring experience and leadership to the backs.
- Mia Venner, despite standout club and England performances, has been left out.
- Fan reaction online has been overwhelmingly in support of Venner – many calling it a “shock omission.”
- England will host the tournament, with huge pressure and expectation to win on home soil.
Back Three Battle Is Brutal
England’s squad is absolutely loaded with back-three options:
- Ellie Kildunne
- Abby Dow
- Jess Breach
- Claudia MacDonald
- Emma Sing
There’s no denying the talent here – pace, footwork, finishing ability – it’s a tough group to break into. But some fans feel Venner offered something fresh: raw power, versatility, and fearless running.
Venner’s Rise
At just 23, Mia Venner has been turning heads. She’s been a standout for Gloucester-Hartpury, contributed in recent Red Roses camps, and looked ready to step up to the biggest stage. Many assumed she was a lock for this squad – or at least in the wider 40.
Our Take
Let’s be real – this England squad is stacked. It’s built to win a World Cup, and there’s no room for sentiment or “maybe later.” But if there’s one player we thought had earned her shot, it was Mia Venner.
She’s quick, powerful, confident under the high ball, and unafraid to run straight at defenders. You want spark? She brings it. You want grit? She’s got that too. We get that competition in the backline is fierce – but even so, this one stings.
The good news? She’s only 23. Her time will come. And when it does, the Red Roses better make space – because Venner’s going to take that shirt and run with it. Literally.
Do you think Mia Venner should’ve made the squad? Who would you have picked in the back three?
Let us know in the comments on our social pages.
