Published: 7th February 2022
Huddersfield Giants hooker Bethan Oates has been added to the England Women Performance Squad
Oates captained the Giants as they lifted the Betfred Women’s Super League Shield with a 22-24 victory over Featherstone Rovers last October at Headingley Stadium.
England Women Head Coach Craig Richards said: “We’re really pleased to have added Bethan to the England Women Performance Squad. Bethan put in several impressive performances in 2021, including in the Women’s Super League Shield Final.
“She’s a really hard worker, a great decision maker from acting halfback and has strong leadership qualities as she has shown captaining Huddersfield.
“She will add even more competition for places amongst our squad as we continue to build towards the Rugby League World Cup.”
Oates added: “I’m really proud of myself after being included in the squad. I didn’t expect to be here, but I worked hard last season and now I’m really excited to get started.
“This is a massive opportunity for me and I’m looking forward to developing my game and pushing to earn a shirt at this year’s Rugby League World Cup.”
GiantsCT Head of Women & Girls Rugby, James Westerby says: “It’s excellent news that Bethan has joined the England Performance Squad. We’re really pleased for her and I hope it will inspire fellow Giants players to follow in her footsteps.
“Besides her natural ability, Bethan over the last few years has put in the hard work, dedication and sacrifices that is required to reach this level. Everyone at the Giants wishes her well in her England journey.”
Oates is Huddersfield’s second representative in the England Women Performance Squad joining Shona Hoyle.
England Women will kick-off their Rugby League World Cup campaign on Tuesday 1 November at Headingley Stadium against Brazil before facing Canada at the DW Stadium on 5 November and then returning to Leeds to complete the Group Stage against Papua New Guinea on Wednesday 9 November.
England Women National Performance Squad:
