Cunningham (31 years old), succeeds Emily Rudge, who stepped back from the role following last year’s World Cup. With 28 international caps since her England debut in 2009, Cunningham is arguably the most high-profile women’s rugby league player in the UK, having won every trophy in the women’s game.
She started her career at Thatto Heath before progressing to St Helen’s at the advent of the Women’s Super League. Cunningham was also an ambassador for the World Cup and named the 2021 Woman of Steel. She was excited about being named England Women’s captain, saying it was a “huge honor.” “Being selected the captain of my nation seems like the peak for me as a player,” she added. “I first picked up a ball in high school. Wow, what a voyage.
Rudge is still a member of the England team, and head coach Stuart Barrow has made it known that the seasoned athletes will create a leadership group to assist in developing the team’s younger members in the run-up to the 2025 World Cup in France.
Cunningham received praise from Barrow, who said, “For some years now, Jodie has shown what a good leader she is, captaining St Helens to several titles and being one of the most experienced players in the international set-up. She regularly demonstrates all the qualities of a great captain, and I believe she is the best candidate to guide us into the next World Cup.
With the women’s game in the UK gaining more attention and support in recent years, Cunningham’s appointment as captain is a significant moment for the sport. It highlights the progress made in women’s rugby league and recognizes the contributions of players like Cunningham and Rudge, who helped elevate the game to new heights.
The double-header international against France will be an opportunity for both the men’s and women’s teams to showcase their talents and continue to build momentum toward the next World Cup. With Cunningham at the helm, the England Women’s team will look to make their mark on the international stage and continue inspiring the next generation of players.