England women's rugby league thumps France 38‑4 in World Cup warm‑up

England’s women’s rugby league team defeated France 38‑4 in Toulouse, scoring seven tries in a warm‑up match ahead of the IRL Women’s World Cup in October. Debutants Ellise Derbyshire, Lucy Murray, Ella Donnelly and others featured, with Derbyshire crossing twice on debut. England coach Stuart Barrow said the game provided valuable lessons and praised the young side’s defensive effort after early errors.

France, coached by Alan Walsh, fought back in the second half to limit England to two more tries, with Jenna Foubister and Derbyshire adding scores. Walsh highlighted his players’ work rate and defensive resilience despite the loss. The match was played under NRLW rules with 35‑minute halves.