Zoe Stratford (née Aldcroft), England’s World Cup-winning rugby union captain and star player for Gloucester-Hartpury, has joyfully announced her pregnancy. The 29-year-old revealed on Instagram that she and her partner are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child, expected this September.
Stratford’s announcement comes just seven months after she led the Red Roses to an unforgettable World Cup victory on home soil. Following her historic success on the field, she shared, “We are so incredibly grateful and excited,” expressing her happiness about the new chapter ahead.
Due to her pregnancy, Stratford will sadly miss the upcoming Women’s Six Nations tournament, where England is set to begin their campaign against Ireland at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on Saturday, 11 April.
READ MORE: Gloucester Implements New Policy to Address Nuisance Caused by Rough Sleeping
READ MORE: Bodycam Footage Reveals Intense Gloucester Arrest After Suspect Bites Officer
Widely regarded as one of the sport’s finest, Stratford earned the World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award in 2021. She has also played a pivotal role at Gloucester-Hartpury, captaining the club to three consecutive Premiership Women’s Rugby titles. Fans and teammates alike are celebrating this exciting news as the rugby star embarks on motherhood.