John Mitchell’s side, who secured a third consecutive Guinness Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam in April, host France at Gloucester’s Kingsholm Stadium on Saturday 7th September, and then take on the Black Ferns at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday 14th September. Both games will be shown on prime time free-to-air TV, kicking off at 2.30pm BST.

“As we approach an exciting year for women’s rugby in England, visibility of the Red Roses, and the women’s game in general, remains paramount for the growth of the game," said RFU Executive Director of the Women’s Game, Alex Teasdale.

“For our Red Roses to have a prime time free-to-air TV on a Saturday afternoon illustrates the rise in interest of their journey and the incredible support they receive. We hope the broadcasting of our September matches against world-class opposition will encourage young girls and boys to pick up a rugby ball with their local grassroots club, as well as attract more support ahead of an exciting year of women’s sport in this country.”