Australia-born Jasmin Strange highlights England's 23-player squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, marking her first call-up. The Sydney Roosters second-row forward, currently set to compete in the NRLW Grand Final against the Brisbane Broncos, qualifies for England through her mother, Adele.

At 23 years old, Strange is the daughter of John Strange, head coach of the Roosters women's team, who played for Featherstone in the 1990s. Alongside her, three other uncapped players join the squad:

• Connie Boyd from Leeds Rhinos
• Hope Millard of Canterbury Bulldogs
• Lucie Sams from Wigan Warriors

The squad also features dual-code international Fran Goldthorp, who last represented England in the 2022 World Cup, along with Georgia Roche from Newcastle Knights and Hollie-Mae Dodd of Canberra Raiders.

Strange's selection as a heritage player is a result of relaxed eligibility rules allowing players to represent multiple tier one nations. While speculation surrounded the inclusion of more NRLW players, head coach Stu Barrow emphasized a commitment to developing homegrown talent.

Notable selections include all three Woman of Steel nominees: Jenna Foubister, Eva Hunter, and Megan Williams, along with Liv Wood from York Valkyrie, who recently won the Grand Final. Jodie Cunningham, set to retire post-tournament, and Vicky Whitfield are also part of the squad, making their mark at their respective World Cups.

Barrow stated, "Narrowing our squad from 40 players to a final 23 has involved some difficult decisions, but we believe we have the right balance of experience and youth to compete on the world stage."

England's campaign kicks off with three group matches, starting against Wales on 17 October in Perth, followed by matches against Australia on 24 October and Samoa on 30 October. The top two teams will advance to the semi-finals on 7 and 8 November, culminating in the final on 15 November.