Loughborough Lightning have named Ellie Roberts as their captain for the JAECOO PWR Next Gen Cup campaign, which gets underway at Sale Sharks this weekend.
The 22-year-old back row led Loughborough University Women to their first BUCS Super Rugby Milk Championship final in 21 years, after Brunel University were defeated 45-5 back in April.
Roberts, who has played 10 times for Lightning, starting with her debut against Gloucester-Hartpury in September 2023, also led England Students to a 63-0 over UKAF.
She will be supported by vice-captain Carmela Morrall, who recently returned from an extended spell away training with the Red Roses, and also captained Lightning during their 2025/26 Cup campaign.
The African Violets commenced their 2026/27 Cup campaign underway at Morson Stadium this Saturday against Sale Sharks (kick-off: 2pm).
Lightning then welcome Saracens to the home of Bedford Blues, Goldington Road, on Friday 2 October – for ticket information please click HERE.
A trip to Exeter Chiefs awaits on Saturday 10 October, before their pool stage concludes with an East Midlands Derby against Leicester Tigers at Loughborough University on Saturday 17 October (kick-off: 2pm), for ticket information, please click HERE.
Tickets are also on sale at a discounted Early Bird rate for Lightning’s first home game of the JAECOO PWR 2026/27 season, when Trailfinders Women are the visitors to Franklin’s Gardens under the Friday Night Lights on 20 November (kick-off: 7.30pm). To purchase your tickets, please click HERE.
Loughborough Lightning 2026/27 Season Tickets are still on sale priced from £70 adult and £25 child. To purchase yours or for more information, please click HERE.