The National Rugby League Women (NRLW) is quickly becoming a magnet for rugby union talent, with players from across the globe eyeing opportunities to cross over. The influx of stars from 7s and XVs isn’t slowing down, and the league’s growth is attracting athletes looking to test themselves in one of the fastest-growing competitions in women’s sport.
USA’s Jaz Gray and Amanda Berta, along with Canada’s Renee Gonzalez, are among the latest to register for the NRLW’s Vegas talent combine. Their goal? To secure a spot in the 2025 season and follow in the footsteps of Black Ferns stars like Michaela Blyde and Tysha Ikenasio, who have already made the leap to league. Meanwhile, Australian 7s standout Lily Dick signed a two-year deal with the Cowboys, joining the growing list of cross-code athletes ready to make their mark.
So, what makes the NRLW so appealing to union players? One major factor is the pay. In 2023, the NRLW salary cap was set at USD $600,000 per club, with planned increases to USD $1 million by 2027. Minimum player salaries, which started at USD $20,000 in 2023, are expected to surpass USD $33,000 by 2027. This dwarfs the compensation in women’s rugby union, where Super W players often receive retainers as low as USD $2,700, with top-tier players earning modest club payments on top. For many athletes, the NRLW provides a more stable and lucrative professional environment. For many, it’s the chance to compete in a fully professional environment that offers consistent games, structured pathways, and rising visibility. The expanded 12-team competition means more spots are up for grabs, and the fast-paced, physical nature of rugby league translates well for players coming from sevens or XVs backgrounds.
For international players like Gray, Berta, and Gonzalez, the NRLW represents an opportunity to showcase their skills on a bigger stage. The exposure could lead to further professional contracts, while the competition itself offers valuable experience that players can carry back to their union careers. Additionally, the league’s competitive salaries and strong media coverage make it a desirable destination.
Nigeria is also joining the wave. Coach Bolu Fagborun is heading to Australia in search of heritage players who can boost Nigeria’s squad ahead of their World Cup qualification campaign. Fagborun sees the NRLW as a platform to not only strengthen his team but also raise the profile of rugby league in Nigeria.
The Warriors, Bulldogs, and Cowboys have been particularly aggressive in their recruiting efforts, signing names like Payton Takimoana, Tysha Ikenasio, and Kalyn Takitimu-Cook. The Bulldogs added Moana Courtenay and Maatuleio Fotu-Moala, further bolstering their ranks with union talent.
As the NRLW continues to grow, expect the trend of cross-code signings to rise. The league’s combination of professionalism, competitive balance, and global appeal is turning heads – and with more union stars looking to make the switch, the future of the NRLW is brighter than ever.
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