England star to join Eels after Vegas Test

England forward Paige Travis is set to join the Eels on a two-year contract after the historic March 1 Test against the Jillaroos at Allegiant Stadium.

Travis, who has played eight Tests for England, is the fourth English star to join the NRLW, along with second-row partner Hollie-Mae Dodd (Raiders), Georgia Roche (Knights) and Francesca Goldthorp (Cowboys).

The 25-year-old, who has played in four Challenge Cup winning teams with St Helens, said she was looking forward to the move to Parramatta and wanted to test herself in the NRLW.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Parramatta Eels and to challenge myself in the NRLW,” Travis said.

“I’ve watched a lot of the NRLW games, and the Eels have really impressed me as a team who play with passion and for each other.

“I look forward to meeting the girls and bringing my experience to the squad next year."

Travis was a member of the England team that played Wales last month and scored three tries.

Parramatta officials confirmed she would be available for selection in the Vegas Test and 2025 Ashes series against the Jillaroos before joining the Eels NRLW squad at the club's new Centre of Excellence in mid-2025.

“The Parramatta Eels are excited to sign a player of the calibre of Paige Travis,” GM of Football, Mark O’Neill, said.

“Paige brings a wealth of experience at Test, World Cup, and club level, and her exceptional footwork and strength will be a fantastic addition to our squad.

“NRLW fans will be in for a treat when Paige takes to the field in the Blue & Gold and displays some of that Lancashire magic."

Known for her cheeky wink and dinosaur hair plait, Travis played rugby union as a junior before joining St Helen’s at just 19 years of age.

Her career to date is impressive with eight Tests caps for England, including the last World Cup in 2022, and 65 games for Saints.