AFTER their 90-4 defeat to Australia in Las Vegas in March 2025, many comments were made about how far behind England now are when it came to international rugby league. 

The defeat also put paid to the planned Ashes series between the two nations, leaving England waiting for a further opportunity to test themselves against some of the very best in the world.

While very few will be expecting a victory for Stuart Barrow’s side when the two meet in the group stages, an improved performance will signify improvement has been made over the past 18 months.

That could come with the involvement of NRLW players Jasmin Strange and Hope Millard, who have put their names forward to play on heritage grounds, but they will still face an almighty battle if they are to go one further than the semi-final stage that has proved their nemesis in the last two tournaments.

KEY PLAYERS

Having not ended her club career with any silverware, retiring captain Jodie Cunningham will look to bring the curtain down on her international career by creating some final happy memories. 

With many younger players new to a long-distance tour and being away from home for weeks on end, old-pro Cunningham will offer a reassuring air among the squad, which should show itself on the field. 

Woman of Steel winner Jenna Foubister and runner up Eva Hunter both have the ability to create something out of nothing and add a new dimension to the side that might catch a few teams out.

COACH

After enjoying a number of routine victories over France and Wales, Stuart Barrow suffered his only defeat in four years when England played Australia in Vegas last March. 

He has also handed opportunities to many younger players, who will be the nucleus of this international side for years to come.

SQUAD

Keara Bennett (Leeds Rhinos), Connie Boyd (Leeds Rhinos), Amelia Brown (Huddersfield Giants), Ruby Bruce (Leeds Rhinos), Mary Coleman (Wigan Warriors), Evie Cousins (Leeds Rhinos), Jodie Cunningham (St Helens), Anna Davies (Wigan Warriors), Hollie-Mae Dodd (Canberra Raiders), Jenna Foubister (Wigan Warriors), Fran Goldthorp (North Queensland Cowboys), Eva Hunter (Wigan Warriors), Molly Jones (Wigan Warriors), Hope Millard (Canterbury Bulldogs), Lucy Murray (Leeds Rhinos), Georgia Roche (Newcastle Knights), Isabel Rowe (Wigan Warriors), Lucie Sams (Wigan Warriors), Jasmin Strange (Sydney Roosters), Vicky Whitfield (St Helens), Megan Williams (Wigan Warriors), Georgia Wilson (Wigan Warriors), Liv Wood (York Valkyrie).