England relaxes: Pampering night before WRWC semi-final vs. France

England Seeks Unity with a “Night of Pampering” Before the Semi-Final Against France

Rosie Galligan revealed that the England selection is planning a “pamper night” to strengthen team bonds before the World Cup semi-final against France, which will be played on Saturday at Ashton Gate. The Red Roses, considered favorites for the encounter known as ‘Le Crunch’, will seek to disconnect from rugby during an evening of relaxation at their hotel in Bristol, anticipating the “war” that lies ahead.

“In fact, we’ll have a pamper night on Wednesday, where we’ll all bring our own face masks and wear pajamas in our team room to watch a movie together,” Galligan stated.

Rosie Galligan

“It’s those moments that really unite us and bring us closer, so that when we’re in the field, we’re in a war together.” England has won its last 18 matches against France since 2018, but in their two most recent home encounters, they barely managed to withstand their Six Nations rivals’ comebacks.

They won 38-33 in 2023 and 43-42 in 2025, but on both occasions, they collapsed after building impressive leads.

“Le Crunch is the best and probably similar for the French. When you go away, that’s when it’s really special,” said Galligan.

Rosie Galligan

“It’s always a pretty hostile environment when we go to France and in the same way when the French come here. They seem to come alive and always want to beat us at home. “It’s just another rugby match, but that Franco-English rivalry is something you don’t take for granted.”