LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Australia dominated England in a record-breaking 90-4 victory at Allegiant Stadium, exposing a significant gap in talent between the NRLW and England's Women's Super League.
The margin of defeat was England's worst ever, with a last-minute try from Georgia Roche preventing a complete whitewash.
In light of this defeat, England coach Craig Barrow is considering recruiting NRLW heritage players to improve the team's competitiveness.
Hollie-Mae Dodd, who plays for Canberra, and Paige Travis, who is set to join Parramatta, are two NRLW players that Barrow has been in contact with.
Barrow had previously rejected approaches from heritage players, but now recognizes the need to strengthen the team.
Jasmin Strange, an outside back for the Sydney Roosters, and Keilee Joseph, a forward for the Broncos Origin, are among the players believed to be eligible to represent England.
The match highlighted the disparity between the NRLW and the Women's Super League, prompting discussion about how to bridge the gap.
England's heavy defeat has raised questions about the competitiveness of their domestic league and the caliber of players it produces compared to the Australian counterparts.
Bringing in NRLW heritage players could provide England with the experience and skill needed to challenge the top teams in international competition.
The potential recruitment of NRLW players by England reflects a growing trend of cross-border player movement in women's rugby league.
With players like Strange and Joseph eligible to represent England due to their heritage, the team has an opportunity to strengthen its roster and compete at a higher level.
Barrow's decision to consider heritage players demonstrates a willingness to explore new avenues for talent acquisition and improve England's performance on the international stage.
As the gap between the NRLW and the Women's Super League becomes more apparent, England may need to look beyond its domestic talent pool to remain competitive in the world of women's rugby league.