Leeds Rhinos are set to land an astonishing coup in the shape of England and St Helens star Amy Hardcastle. Rugby League Live understands the Super League champions are set to complete a deal to sign the prolific centre in what is a major raid of a title rival.
Hardcastle, 33, has been one of the best players on the planet throughout her career and was named in the NRL's team of the decade back in 2020, the only English representative in the team. Since joining Saints ahead of the 2021 season, she has scored a phenomenal 51 tries in 28 appearances, helping the club to a historic treble and a further Challenge Cup triumph last year. However, she is believed to have informed her Saints teammates that she will be moving on earlier this week, with a stunning move to Headingley now on the cards.
For England, she has been similarly brilliant. In last year's World Cup she scored five tries in three games and has been a reliable performer on the international stage for several years. Hardcastle has rapidly emerged as one of the faces of the Women's game during its rapid rise.
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Hardcastle is based in Halifax and a move to Leeds will significantly reduce her commute, while Leeds' introduction of match fees will also ensure she receives payments for her efforts on the field. St Helens are said to be understanding of the situation and have wished her well.
York Valkyrie have also started to give players match fees but St Helens aren't set to follow the trend at this stage. Their investment is currently going into their facilities, as well as their coaching and medical departments. That said, they are not anticipating any further departures from their squad at this stage.
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