England's Hardcastle announces international retirement

England women's all-time record try scorer Amy Hardcastle has announced her international retirement.

The St Helens centre, 37, scored 30 tries in 29 appearances for her country, having made her international debut in 2009.

England head coach Stuart Barrow described her as "one of the defining players of her generation".

She leaves the international game a month before the start of the Rugby League World Cup - having featured at the past three tournaments - but will continue to play at club level.

Hardcastle was the only England player selected in the Women's Team of the Decade, picked by the NRL in 2020 to highlight the outstanding players of the 2010s.

"Representing England has been the greatest honour of my rugby league career," she said.

"To wear the national shirt, play alongside so many incredible team-mates and represent my family, clubs and community has meant everything to me.

"After a lot of reflection, I feel now is the right time to step away from the international game. I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved and how far women's rugby league has come during my career.

"I'd like to thank every coach, team-mate, member of staff and supporter who has been part of my international journey.

"I'll be the biggest cheerleader for the girls who are selected to fly to Australia, and I wish the squad and Stuart Barrow every success at the Rugby League World Cup."

England's opening match of the World Cup is against Wales in Perth on 17 October.

Paying tribute to Hardcastle, England head coach Barrow added: "She has been an outstanding ambassador for the sport, a role model for young players and someone who has consistently driven standards on and off the field.

"Throughout her international career, Amy has shown professionalism, resilience and an unwavering commitment to the England programme.

"She has performed on the biggest stages, inspired team-mates and helped elevate the profile of women's rugby league both nationally and internationally."