The Nations Cup tournament was played for the first time at Esher RFC, England, in August 2008.

This was the first of what is planned to be a regular tournament involving major Northern Hemisphere women's rugby nations.

The first event was originally promoted as including England, USA, Canada, Wales and France - but by the time the match schedule was published only the first three nations had confirmed their participation.

The USA were unable to maintain this performance against Canada, however, losing their fourth successive international against their North American rivals (their worst run ever) to finish third overall.

For Canada, despite the heavy defeat to England, runners-up spot confirmed their position in the top four of women's rugby.