LEEDS RHINOS’ hopes of making a push for the Women’s Super League title have received a significant boost with Bella Sykes’ return to the club after a spell in Australia.
The England international forward left AMT Headingley at the beginning of this year to play in the Harvey Norman Premiership, making seven appearances for Cronulla Sharks’ second string.
But she’s decided to return to Leeds in order to give herself the best chance of selection in Stuart Barrow’s international squad for the World Cup.
Sykes, who played for Huddersfield Giants before joining the Rhinos three years ago, is already back in Leeds and could make her return this Sunday when they travel to York Valkyrie.
Under coach Lois Forsell, Leeds have made a strong start to the season with eight wins from nine, making them the prime challengers to the title holders Wigan Warriors.
Sykes said: “I was looking at my plans for the next couple of months and with World Cup selection being at the end of September and the season coming to an end in Australia I needed to get some game time.
“I had a chat with Lois about potentially coming back and I was really keen and excited to get back to playing with the Rhinos.”
Leeds have also confirmed the signing of French back-rower Stecy Bessière from Lescure-Arthès following a successful trial.
Forsell said: “It’s a great opportunity for her as she keeps learning and challenging herself as she prepares to hopefully go to the World Cup in Australia.”