England's Matthews extends Gloucester-Hartpury deal

England vice-captain Alex Matthews has signed a new deal to stay with Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR) reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury.

Matthews, 32, joined the club in 2022 and has been part of all three successive PWR titles the team has collected in that time.

The number eight has won 82 caps for the Red Roses and is part of their current Six Nations squad, although a shoulder injury prevented her from playing a part in their win against Scotland on Saturday.

"I'm really pleased to have extended my time with Gloucester-Hartpury," Matthews said.

"We've built something really special here over the past few years and it's a group I love being a part of. I'm excited to keep pushing, developing my game and creating more success with this team."

The club have not disclosed the length of Matthews' new deal.

Matthews made her England debut in 2011 and has been part of World Cup-winning squads in 2014 and 2025.

This season, Matthews has started nine of Gloucester-Hartpury's 14 games and they sit top of the PWR table having taken maximum points from every match.

Gloucester-Hartpury's head of rugby Dan Murphy said Matthews is a "hugely influential player".

"Her experience at the very highest level, combined with the physicality and skillset she brings, makes her a key part of this squad," he added.

"She's been central to the success we've had over the past few seasons and we're really pleased she's committed her future to the club."