How Does Captaining England Impact Matthews and His Dad?

Alex Matthews, the England number eight, has been appointed captain for the Red Roses' crucial Women's Rugby World Cup match against Australia, marking a deeply emotional moment as her father, who is battling terminal cancer, will watch her play live for the first time. This match is pivotal not only for Matthews but also for the England team as they seek to secure a spot in the knockout stages of the tournament.

Last updated: 06 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Alex Matthews has been named captain for England's final pool match against Australia.
• This match holds significant emotional weight for Matthews, as her father will be present.
• The regular captain, Zoe Aldcroft, is sidelined due to a knee injury.
• Matthews has previously led England successfully in other competitions.
• Australia's head coach, Jo Yapp, has a history with Matthews and is looking to secure a knockout stage position.

Context of the Match

The match between England and Australia on Saturday, 6 September, at the Brighton and Hove Albion Stadium is not just another game; it represents a culmination of personal and professional journeys for many involved. With kick-off scheduled for 17:00 BST, the stakes are high for both teams. England aims to maintain their unbeaten streak and secure a strong position in the knockout rounds, while Australia needs a point to guarantee their advancement.

Alex Matthews: A Personal Journey

At 32 years old, Alex Matthews has established herself as a leading figure in women's rugby, particularly in her role as number eight for England. The announcement of her captaincy for this match against Australia comes at a poignant time for Matthews and her family. Her father, Dave, was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014 but was given the all-clear. Sadly, in 2023, he received a terminal diagnosis, making this World Cup match particularly significant for the Matthews family.

Matthews expressed her gratitude and excitement about her father's presence at the game, stating, "It means everything that he'll be there to see me lead out the team." This emotional connection underscores the importance of family support in sports, particularly in high-stakes tournaments like the World Cup.

The Role of Leadership in the Team

With regular captain Zoe Aldcroft out of action due to a knee injury, the responsibility has fallen on Matthews to lead the team. Vice-captain Marlie Packer previously stepped in for Aldcroft, demonstrating the depth of leadership in the squad. Matthews has shown her capability in leadership roles before, having successfully led England to a 61-21 victory against the USA during the WXV1 tournament.

Reflecting on her unexpected captaincy against Australia, Matthews noted, "I wasn't expecting it at all, especially when we have the leadership group that we do." Her approach to leadership focuses on delegation and effective communication, traits that have earned her respect among her teammates and coaches alike.

Coaching Influence: Jo Yapp's Impact

The match will also be a reunion for Matthews and Australian head coach Jo Yapp, who previously coached Matthews at Worcester Women from 2020 to 2022. Yapp's transition to coaching the Wallaroos has been marked by significant challenges, including the financial collapse of Worcester Women in October 2023. Matthews acknowledged Yapp's contributions to women's rugby in Australia, stating, "I don't think they would have made the progress they have in the last few years without her." This mutual respect highlights the interconnected nature of women's rugby on a global scale.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for England and Australia

As both teams prepare for this pivotal match, the focus will be on strategy, execution, and the emotional undercurrents that accompany such encounters. For Matthews, leading the team in front of her father will be a moment of pride and representation of resilience, both personally and for the sport itself. The match is set to be a showcase of talent, determination, and the spirit of rugby.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Matthews steps into her leadership role against a competitive Australian side. It remains to be seen how the pressures of leadership and the emotional stakes will influence the performance of both teams.

FAQs

Why is Alex Matthews captaining England against Australia?

Alex Matthews was appointed captain for the match against Australia due to regular captain Zoe Aldcroft's knee injury. Matthews' leadership experience and respect within the team make her an ideal choice for this crucial game.

What is the significance of the match for Alex Matthews?

This match is significant for Matthews as her father, who is terminally ill, will be watching her play live for the first time. It adds an emotional layer to her role as captain, making the game particularly meaningful.

Who is Jo Yapp and what is her connection to this match?

Jo Yapp is the head coach of the Australian women's rugby team and previously coached Alex Matthews at Worcester Women. Their relationship adds a personal dimension to the match as they face each other on the pitch.

What are the implications of this match for the World Cup?

The outcome of this match is crucial for both teams. England aims to maintain their unbeaten record, while Australia needs at least one point to secure their place in the knockout stages of the tournament.

How can fans watch the match?

The match will be broadcast live on BBC Two, BBC Radio Sports Extra, and available on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app.

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