The roar that followed England Women’s Rugby World Cup victory last summer may have been the loudest in the history of the women’s game.

When England lifted the Rugby World Cup in front of 81,885 fans at Twickenham in September, media hailed it as a turning point for women’s rugby in England.

Less than a year later, the numbers suggest that prediction may already be coming true.

Record ticket demand for the upcoming Women’s Six Nations, with more than 60,000 tickets sold for the Red Roses opener against the Republic of Ireland, points to a sport experiencing one of the fastest growth periods in its history.

For England lock and back row Morwenna Talling, the growing crowds represent more than just people in the stands but rather how far the sport has come in such a brief period.

The 23-year-old described the change in visibility as transformative.

“It’s obviously a massive achievement. It’s something I’ve probably dreamed of since coming into the England setup,” she said. “I think before that [World Cup victory] rugby wasn’t necessarily that visible.”

The anticipated record attendance surpasses the previous competition record of 58,498, set during the Red Roses’ dramatic win over France in 2023.

However, unlike three years ago the domestic league is also experiencing accelerated growth.

Sale Sharks, who Talling plays for, have experienced multiple home sell-outs at Morson Stadium since England’s triumph. International teammates Amy Cockayne, Holly Aitchison and beaten Canadian finalist Asia Hogan-Rochester also play for the Sharks.

She said: “It was pretty crazy because we’ve never hit those numbers before, and it’s just kind of inspiring to be able to come to Sale and watch.

“We’ve got me, Holly and Amy who play for the Red Roses and you’ve got Asia who lit up the World Cup, there’s so many role models you can watch on your doorstep.”

The growth has also highlighted the importance of expanding opportunities beyond traditional rugby strongholds.

Talling pointed to the role of clubs in the north of England in creating new pathways for young girls aspiring to play rugby union and even reach the Premiership Women’s Rugby.

“Sale Sharks is the only club in the north for women’s rugby in the PWR and to be able to showcase to young girls the style we play is massive,” she detailed.

“I think for young girls around here it’s an opportunity to have a pathway into the PWR and show them there’s nothing stopping them going all the way.”

For many within the game, the challenge is now maintaining the surge in interest.

Investment alongside continued support at stadiums across the country will be vital if women’s rugby is to continue its historic rise.

For the England lock, the formula is simple.

“Just wanting to get people to matches and keeping that visibility. The more you see it, the more you can believe it.”