Leeds Rhinos news: England Women duo leave to join Australian clubs

Izzy Northrop has joined Brisbane-based Queensland Women’s Premiership outfit Norths Devils and Bella Sykes will move to the equivalent competition in New South Wales later this year after completing her degree in physical education. Both players joined Rhinos from Huddersfield Giants in 2023.

Northrop, a prop who was Rhinos’ joint-top try scorer in 2024, hasn’t ruled out a future return to Leeds. She said: “I have loved my time at Leeds Rhinos and I am grateful for the opportunity the club gave me.

“I leave with many fond memories - including playing in the Women’s Challenge Cup final twice at Wembley - and I have made lifelong friends. I wish the Rhinos all the best and will be following and cheering them on from over here and I would love to return to the club one day.”

Sykes’ is daughter of former Castleford Tigers forward Nathan Sykes. She can play at hooker, prop or loose-forward and was Betfred Women’s Super League young player of the year in 2024. She admitted her decision to leave was “super-difficult”.

She said: “The club and girls have been great and I have loved every moment. The opportunity came about to move over to Australia and play in the Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership and the challenge to go over and develop my game is super-exciting to me.

“I’m hoping it makes me better as a player and a person and pushes me to be at my best. I was honoured to make my England debut in 2024 and I want to continue to put my hand up for selection when I am in Australia.”

Rhinos Women’s coach Lois Forsell said: “Both players have gone from strength to strength since joining Leeds and it has been great to see them develop and go on to earn international honours. We wish them all the best in the next chapter of their careers and thank them for all they have given to the club. We continue to develop our squad, the girls are working hard throughout preseason and we are looking forward to getting going in April.”