A vibrant new mural celebrating women’s rugby has been unveiled in Northampton town centre this week, marking 50 days to go until the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 (WRWC 2025) kicks off in England.
Commissioned by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and funded through its Impact ’25 legacy programme, the artwork features Red Roses and Loughborough Lightning flanker Sadia Kabeya, alongside nine‑year‑old local player Emily Richards.
The mural brightens a prominent wall on Lapstone House in St James, Northampton – a stone’s throw away from cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens which will host six Women’s Rugby World Cup fixtures across August and September – turning heads and inviting passers‑by to learn more about the tournament and how to get involved in rugby.
Emily, who appears in the mural, discovered rugby three years ago and has participated in programmes funded by Impact ’25 locally as well as being a keen supporter of Northampton Saints, Loughborough Lightning and both England teams.
“I love rugby because it’s a fun team sport where everyone is welcome,” she said. “I like the mud, the running, and listening to my coaches. Every game is different and gives me a real buzz!
“Seeing players like Emily Scarratt and Helena Rowland up close inspires me, and with the World Cup matches being local I can watch, learn, and maybe one day be on that pitch as a Red Rose myself.”
Emily Richards
Northampton Saints’ Community and Women’s Rugby Director, Connor Fleming, added: “It’s fantastic to see women’s rugby celebrated so vibrantly in the heart of our town.
“At Saints, we’re passionate about growing the game at every level, and seeing local talent like Emily alongside an England and Loughborough Lightning star in Sadia Kabeya sends a powerful message to young players that rugby is a game for everyone.
“With the Women’s Rugby World Cup coming to Northampton, now is the perfect time to get involved, and we’re proud to stand behind initiatives like Impact ’25 that are helping to inspire the next generation.”
The mural is one of several being installed nationwide through Impact ’25, a £14.55 million partnership between the RFU, the UK Government, Sport England and UK Sport designed to create more opportunities for women and girls to play, watch and volunteer in rugby.
The project funds school programmes, club open days and community festivals, many of which will take place across Northampton in the run‑up to and during WRWC 2025.
Councillor James Petter, Deputy Leader of West Northamptonshire Council and Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “Northampton has rugby in its veins and this stunning mural puts our passion for the game on full display.
“Sadia Kabeya and Emily Richards perfectly capture the spirit of our community – world‑class excellence standing shoulder‑to‑shoulder with grassroots enthusiasm. I encourage everyone to head into town, snap a photo with the mural and, most importantly, give rugby a try at their local club this summer.”
A QR code on the mural directs visitors to information about local Girls’ Activity Days, club taster sessions and how to secure tickets for the tournament.
Also coming soon is RugbyFest, a carnival-themed event taking place in Abington Park on Friday 22 August from 2pm to 9.30pm. Come along and take part in rugby activities with help from Northampton Saints and Loughborough Lightning players and coaches, enjoy fun games and activities for all ages, and watch the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup – USA vs England – live on a big screen.
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