World Cup-Winning Coach Lends Expertise to Struggling Gloucester
In a surprising move, John Mitchell, the mastermind behind England's Red Roses recent Women's World Cup triumph, is set to provide his expertise to Gloucester Rugby. The New Zealander will undertake an unpaid, short-term role with the Cherry and Whites throughout November 2025.
A Focus on Defence and Development
Mitchell's involvement at Kingsholm is specifically designed to bolster the club's defensive capabilities. The club confirmed his role will concentrate on "improving tackle and collision effectiveness". Crucially, this is not a paid consultancy but rather an opportunity for knowledge sharing.
Gloucester's official statement emphasised that Mitchell's presence offers a unique chance for their younger coaching staff to learn from one of the game's most experienced minds. The club expressed gratitude for his willingness to support their "period of learning and growth".
A Vastly Experienced Career
John Mitchell brings nearly 30 years of elite-level coaching experience to the task. Since retiring as a player in 1995, his illustrious career has included coaching the All Blacks and two separate stints as an assistant coach with England's men's team.
His resume also features leadership roles in international and club programmes across the USA, South Africa, Australia, and his native New Zealand. Mitchell guided the Red Roses to World Cup glory in September 2025 at a packed Twickenham and remains undefeated since taking the helm in 2023.
A Boost for a Club in Need
Mitchell's arrival comes at a challenging time for Gloucester. The club has lost its first five games of the Premiership season and sits second from bottom in the table, grappling with a difficult injury crisis under head coach George Skivington.
It is understood that Mitchell's involvement will be limited to a handful of sessions, providing a focused injection of his defensive wisdom. Meanwhile, Mitchell has hinted he may continue as Red Roses coach beyond his current contract, which runs until the end of the 2026 Women's Six Nations.
