England call up Australia-born Strange for Women's Rugby League World Cup

England have called up Australia-born Jasmin Strange as one of four uncapped players in their 23-strong squad for the Women's Rugby League World Cup, according to BBC Sport.

It is a bold blend. Youth and NRL experience sit alongside proven England regulars for the tournament in Australia.

Strange, 23, plays second-row forward for Sydney Roosters, one of the hard-running forwards who operate on the edges of the pack. She qualifies for England through her mother Adele. Her father is John Strange, head coach of the Roosters women's team, who played for Featherstone in the 1990s.

The other three uncapped players, yet to win a senior England cap, are Leeds Rhinos forward Connie Boyd, Canterbury Bulldogs back Hope Millard and Wigan Warriors youngster Lucie Sams. Millard has rugby league in her blood. Her father Shane was a forward for Widnes, Leeds and Wigan.

England have leaned into Australian-based talent. Georgia Roche of Newcastle Knights and Hollie-Mae Dodd of Canberra Raiders are both included. In league, completion rates and field position decide tight games, and that weekly NRL pace should help England cope with the speed of tournament football.

There is a familiar face back too. Fran Goldthorp last played rugby league for England at the 2022 World Cup. She has since crossed codes, and her return adds pace out wide.

Domestic form has been rewarded. Woman of Steel nominees Jenna Foubister, Eva Hunter and Megan Williams all make the squad. The award crowns the best player in the Women's Super League each season.

Experience anchors the group. Forward Vicky Whitfield will go to her fourth World Cup. Captain Jodie Cunningham will retire after the tournament, giving England an emotional focus as well as leadership in the middle.

What makes this stand out is the balance of stories. A retiring captain. A fourth World Cup for one veteran. A first for four newcomers.

For fans, this means a group stage with real variety. England open against Wales in Perth on 17 October, face Australia in Perth on 24 October, then meet Samoa in Wollongong on 30 October, according to BBC Sport.

Three games. Three very different tests of momentum, defence and nerve.