Jodie Cunningham made her international debut for England in 2009 and is now gearing up for a significant match against Wales as part of the ABK International Series. The women’s match is set to kick off at 12:00 GMT on Saturday, November 2, at AMT Headingley in Leeds, prior to the men’s game against Samoa at 14:30 GMT.
Cunningham, who serves as captain, expressed her belief that women’s rugby league has reached an unprecedented level of development. She noted that the sport is currently thriving more than ever before. Reflecting on her earlier experiences, Cunningham highlighted the stark contrasts in opportunities and support for female players since her entry into international rugby. She recalled a time when there was little recognition or funding for women’s rugby, contrasting it with the current state where increased visibility and support are evident.
The establishment of the Women’s Super League in 2017 is identified by Cunningham as a pivotal moment for the sport. Following this, England hosted a World Cup which further elevated the profile of women’s rugby league. Additionally, there have been growing calls for players to be compensated professionally, leading clubs like Leeds Rhinos and St Helens to start paying their athletes. Moreover, by next season, every Super League team will be required to have an Under-19 Academy setup to nurture young talent.
As England prepares for their match against Wales, Cunningham emphasized the importance of this game as a preparation phase for their upcoming encounter against Australia in Las Vegas next March. She acknowledged that this match presents a crucial opportunity for players to secure their spots on the team heading to America.
Cunningham also mentioned the significance of Hollie-Mae Dodd’s return to the squad after joining an NRLW club. Dodd’s experience competing at a high level will be invaluable as England aims for success on an international stage. Although some notable players like Georgia Roche and Fran Goldthorp are unavailable due to commitments elsewhere or transitions back to rugby union, Cunningham believes it’s essential to evaluate younger talents in preparation for future tournaments.
With aspirations set on achieving excellence and aiming for future competitions like the World Cup, Cunningham remains optimistic about the direction women’s rugby league is headed and looks forward to showcasing their growth in upcoming matches.
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