Wigan Warriors forward Mary Coleman has been named in the England squad for the upcoming mid-season international against France. The 28-year-old transitioned to rugby league four years ago following a previous career in union with Preston Grasshoppers.
Coleman boasts a background in the 15-a-side game, featuring in three Varsity matches at Twickenham for Cambridge University and representing Kent in both union and track athletics. Her recent form with Wigan was highlighted by a victory in the Women’s Challenge Cup, where the team defeated St Helens 54-6 at Wembley in May.
The international fixture is scheduled for Saturday, 25 July, at Stade Ernest Wallon in Toulouse. This match acts as a preparation exercise for the upcoming Women’s World Cup. Head coach Stuart Barrow has excluded players currently competing in the Australian NRLW season from this selection. Barrow emphasized that the lead-up to the World Cup, which begins in October, remains a priority as the squad refines its performance standards.
