OS Abbie Ward features in narrow Rugby World Cup defeat

All of the Sedbergh School community tuned in early on Saturday morning to cheer on England in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, which featured Old Sedberghian Abbie Ward who started at Second Row for her 61st international cap.

Abbie’s former House (Robertson) were keen to show their support

In front of a record crowd of 42,579 inside Eden Park, in Auckland, it was reigning champions New Zealand who edged an enthralling game 34-31 to become world champions for a sixth time in their history.

Abbie is a well-established member of the Red Roses side, featuring heavily throughout the tournament following a strong season for Bristol Bears, where her husband, Dave Ward, is Head Coach.

It was a special weekend for Sedberghians on the other side of the world, with two Old Sedberghians playing in two World Cup finals. The following day, OS Harry Brook contributed an important score of 20 runs to help England win the T20 World Cup in Melbourne, Australia.

Staff & Pupils shared their good luck messages to both Abbie & Harry

With the World Cup being delayed a year, there is now a shorter wait until the 2025 World Cup, which will be on home soil for Abbie and England, something that Abbie can’t wait for saying;

“You dream about playing in a World Cup as a kid, but imagine playing in a home World Cup. That’s once in a life time.”

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