Australia and England have named their squads ahead of their historic womens’ international which takes place on Saturday , 1st March, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Kick off is 6pm local time.
It will be the first game between the two since Australia’s 38-0 victory during the 2017 World Cup and both sides will be using the game to measure their progress as they start their 2026 Rugby League World Cup preparations.
“This is an exciting opportunity for the Harvey Norman Jillaroos to play in Las Vegas and reach a new audience. We’re looking forward to elevating women’s rugby league on a world-class stage,” Jess Skinner, Australia head coach said. “We have a strong rivalry with England and a lot has changed since we last faced them in 2017. This high-profile match is a great way to strengthen the national program and help the Jillaroos prepare for the 2026 World Cup. The team had an excellent training session before heading over to the USA and we're eager to bring everything together in Vegas for what promises to be an incredible game of women’s rugby league.”
England captain Jodie Cunningham will equal the England Women’s appearance record, earning her 33 cap in the fixture, whilst Olivia Wood is set to make her tenth appearance as reigning Woman Of Steel Georgie Dagger will make her second.
“We’ve been out in Las Vegas for a few days now and I have been really impressed with everyone’s attitude and commitment since we arrived” noted Stu Barrow, England Head Coach. “Every player in the squad has an important role to play when we face the Australia Jillaroos on Saturday, and they should all be immensely proud of themselves for being part of such a historic occasion. Now we have to focus on the challenge that lies ahead which is a fixture against the world champions for the first time since 2017.”
Australia Women
Ali Brigginshaw, Keilee Joseph, Julia Robinson, Tamika Upton (Brisbane), Simaima Taufa (Canberra), Quincy Dodd, Tiana Penitani (Cronulla), Lauren Brown, Jessika Elliston, Shannon Mato (Gold Coast), Yasmin Clydsdale, Olivia Higgins (Newcastle), Jakiya Whitfeld (North Queensland), Tarryn Aiken, Isabelle Kelly, Olivia Kernick, Jessica Sergis (Sydney Roosters), Kezie Apps, Sarah Togatuki (Wests Tigers).
England Women
Hollie-Mae Dodd (Canberra Raiders), Keara Bennett, Isabel Northrop, Bella Sykes, (Leeds Rhinos), Georgia Roche (Newcastle Knights), Paige Travis (Paramatta Eels), Jodie Cunningham, Amy Hardcastle, Zoe Harris, Shona Hoyle, Katie Mottershead, Erin Stott, Vicky Whitfield, (St Helens), Anna Davies, Jenna Foubister, (Wigan Warriors), Georgie Dagger, Eboni Partington, Tamzin Renouf, Olivia Wood, (York Valkyrie).