Georgia Roche, the 24-year-old England international rugby league star, has returned to her home country after a successful stint with the Newcastle Knights in Australia’s NRL Women’s Premiership. Since joining the Knights in 2023, Roche has been instrumental in their triumph, contributing significantly to their 2023 NRLW Grand Final victory.
Born in Batley, West Yorkshire, Roche began her rugby league journey with Drighlington ARLFC before moving to Dewsbury Moor. Her talent quickly became evident, leading her to represent Yorkshire in the 2018 Women’s Rugby League Association County of Origin against Lancashire. In 2017, she joined Featherstone Rovers Ladies, where she showcased her prowess by scoring all of Featherstone’s points in the 2017 Grand Final, despite their 36–6 defeat to Bradford Bulls Women.
Roche’s exceptional skills earned her the inaugural Woman of Steel award in 2018, highlighting her as a rising star in women’s rugby league. She made her international debut for England against France in October 2018, scoring two tries in a commanding 54–4 victory. Her consistent performances led to her selection for the England squad in subsequent years, including the 2019 World 9s tournament and the 2021 Test Match against Wales.
In 2023, Roche made a significant move by signing a five-year contract with the Newcastle Knights. She made her NRLW debut for the Knights against the Parramatta Eels in August 2023 and played a pivotal role in their 24–18 Grand Final victory.
After a successful season with the Knights, Roche has returned to England and is preparing to represent her country once again. She has been named in the England squad for the upcoming match against the Australia Jillaroos in Las Vegas on March 1, marking her first appearance for England in over a year.
Roche’s journey from local clubs in England to international acclaim and success in the NRLW underscores her dedication and skill. Her return to the England squad is a testament to her resilience and commitment to the sport, promising an exciting future for both her and the England women’s rugby league team
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