No panic for England but Mitchell issues PWR warning

A 2-0 series defeat for the Red Roses, their record 39-match winning streak and 41-match unbeaten run ended, and consecutive losses for the first time since 2016 – England are not invincible. Before England's three-match series against Canada, few would have predicted this outcome. A 2-0 series defeat for the Red Roses; their record 39-match winning streak and 41-match unbeaten run – stretching back nearly four years – ended; and consecutive losses for the first time since 2016. Over the past 13 months, Canada have turned a 33-13 defeat in the World Cup final into a statement 31-22 win in Ottawa. And three years out from the 2029 World Cup, they have laid down an early marker of their title credentials.

More than that, they have proved England are not invincible – a reality which should hearten New Zealand and perennial Women's Six Nations bridesmaids France because both have beaten giant-killers Canada in the past 12 months. For the second time in eight days, England captain Meg Jones has been called upon to take stock of a defeat. Once again, she opted for a message of defiance. "It was a hell of a contest. We're not broken, we just need to grow," said Jones. "Do it together, use the lessons. We're playing the best teams, getting the best punches thrown