Vicky Molyneux announces international retirement

Vicky Molyneux

Vicky Molyneux has announced she will retire from international Rugby League following England Women’s game against Wales on Saturday.

A 19-year-old Molyneux made her international debut during England Women’s very first fixture in 2007 and is the final member of that squad to hang up her boots.

The second row then went on a 14-year hiatus to focus on family and her career before making a sensational return to the senior team in 2021 against Wales. The 35-year-old featured in all four of England’s World Cup games last year – including a player of the match performance against Canada at the DW Stadium in Wigan. 

Molyneux – who also captained GB Teachers during two victories in 2019 – has gone on to earn eight caps for her country and was named vice captain before this year’s mid-season against France.

She also made history at club level earlier this autumn as the first woman added to Wigan’s Hall of Fame.

Reflecting on her retirement, Molyneux said: “This has been a really difficult decision to call time on my international career, but I know this is the right choice. I absolutely love this group of players and I know that I am going to be going out on a high with nothing but love and respect for the team around me.”

“It’s been one of my greatest achievements representing my country and every time the national anthem plays before a game, I get very emotional. It’s going to a fantastic end to my England career in front of the crowd at Headingley and with all of my family in the stands.”

England Women Rugby League Head Coach, Stuart Barrow, said: “To think that Vicky began her international career in 2007 is just incredible, and it shows just how dedicated she has been to her craft that she is still playing on the big stage so many years later.

“Vicky is the ultimate professional and the leadership and commitment she has brought to this England squad is second to none. Since I have taken on the role of head coach, she has been a pleasure to work with and she’s also been a fantastic help to me so I cannot thank her enough for her service.”

“We talk about leaving the shirt in a better place and Vicky has done just that. Over 90 players have entered the England Women dressing room since she made her debut, and she now leaves the squad in the best place possible with a legacy that will be admired for years to come.”