England Women coach Steve McCormack has named an exciting 18-woman squad for his first Test match in charge of the side when they take on France at Odsal Stadium on Friday June 15 (4.30pm).

The squad features seven from Featherstone Rovers, four from Warrington, four from Bradford Thunderbirds and representatives from Hunslet Hawks, Widnes Vikings and Nottingham Outlaws.

“The squad has a good mix of youth and experience,” said McCormack. “From what I have seen over the last few months, it is a very strong squad.

“I have tried to bring a few of the younger girls into the squad to progress alongside some of the more experienced girls that have played for England over a number of years.

“One thing for the England side is that it is a collective effort. If we are going to achieve anything, whether it is against France or in the World Cup next year, everyone in the squad including coaching and backroom staff are going to have to work together.

“We have got some outstanding individual players but it means nothing if we can’t work as one.”

The England Women are taking part in a double-header which will also see England Academy play France at 6.30pm.

Tickets for the England Women v France (4.30pm) and England Academy v France (6.30pm) double-header at Odsal Stadium on Friday June 15, cost just £3 and can be purchased on the gate.

England Women squad to play France (Clubs in brackets):

Tara Stanley (Widnes Vikings)

Lauren Stallwood (Bradford Thunderbirds)

Amy Hardcastle (Bradford Thunderbirds)

Jodie Cunningham (Warrington)

Hannah Bairstow (Featherstone Rovers)

Kirsty Moroney (Bradford Thunderbirds)

Gemma Walsh (Featherstone Rovers)

Emma Slowe (Featherstone Rovers)

Lois Forsell (Hunslet Hawks Ladies)

Andrea Dobson (Featherstone Rovers)

Emily Rudge (Warrington)

Holly Freestone (Warrington)

Kim Field (Featherstone Rovers)

Danielle Bound (Featherstone Rovers)

Rebecca Williams (Nottingham Outlaws)

Clare Robinson (Warrington)

Rachel Twibill (Bradford Thunderbirds)

Natalie Gilmour (Featherstone Rovers)