England Women’s captain Jodie Cunningham has been nominated for the inaugural IRL Hall of Legends as she prepares to lead her side into Round 2 of the IRL Rugby League World Cup with another personal milestone in sight.
Cunningham is set to extend her record as the most capped Women’s international player when she makes her 37th appearance for England in Saturday's prime time clash with Australia in Perth (K.O. 10.05am BST).
A trailblazer for Women’s players, Cunningham made her England debut against Wales in 2009 and is one of 75 nominees selected following an initial round of voting by a committee of esteemed Rugby League coaches, players, administrators, journalists, commentators and historians.
After more than 240 players were considered, the judging panel will now select 40 of the game’s greatest international players for induction, comprising:
- 10 Men's players who began their international careers before the inaugural Rugby League World Cup in 1954
- Twenty-four men’s players who first represented their country during or after the 1954 World Cup, hosted by France
- 6 women’s players
Cunningham and inspirational Tonga leader Jason Taumalolo are the only players representing their nations at IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026 to be under consideration, reflecting their longevity and influence on the game.
The IRL Hall of Legends honours the heroes from the origins of International Rugby League whose pioneering feats led to the establishment of the competition in 1954 and the stars of the modern era who have elevated the game to new heights.
To be considered for induction into the IRL Hall of Legends, nominees will have:
- Made a significant contribution to International Rugby League and/or
- Be a Member of their Nation’s Hall of Fame or equivalent recognition, and/or
- Played a minimum of 5 Tests, and/or
- Been awarded an IRL Golden Cap (50 Tests) and/or
- Won the IRL Golden Boot/RLIF International Player-of-the-Year award
IRL Chair Troy Grant said: "The creation of the IRL Hall of Legends to celebrate and honour players' contribution to International Rugby league is long overdue and special for the game.
"The list of candidates and now list of nominees for induction is simply outstanding. This process for me, as I’m confident it will for others, has triggered fond memories of very special players whose feats on the rugby league field will be tied to special memories in every rugby league fans' life.
"The heritage of our game isn’t celebrated enough and it’s wonderful to be able to recognise players, who on the back of their special efforts that heritage has been cemented, and ensure they are appropriately honoured in this way.
"They have never played for individual recognition, but this honour is what they deserve."
