Sykes and Northrop to leave Leeds Rhinos Women

Leeds Rhinos Women have announced that Bella Sykes and Izzy Northrop are both leaving the club to take up new opportunities in Australia.

Northrop recently travelled to Australia following the completion of her PGCE at Newcastle University and her teaching role and has made the decision to make the move permanent. The prop, who joined the Rhinos in 2023 from Huddersfield Giants has now taken up an opportunity to play for BMD Premiership side Norths Devils.

Bella Sykes, who will complete her studies at Leeds Beckett University later this year, has also informed the club that she will also be moving to Australia to play in the Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership.

Northrop said: “I have loved my time at Leeds Rhinos and I am grateful for the opportunity the club gave me. I leave with many fond memories, including playing in the Women’s Challenge Cup Final twice at Wembley and I have made lifelong friends. I wish the Rhinos all the best and will be following and cheering them on from over here and I would love to return to the club one day.”

Sykes, who also joined the Rhinos from Giants in 2023, is also set to move Down Under later in the year on completion of her degree in Physical Education.

Sykes said: “It’s been a super difficult decision to make as I’ve loved my time at the Rhinos. The club and girls have been great and loved every moment. The opportunity came about to move over to Australia and play in the Harvey Norman NSW Women's Premiership and the challenge to go over and develop my game is super exciting to me. I’m hoping it makes me both better as a player and a person and push me to be at my best. I was honoured to make my England debut in 2024 and I want to continue to put my hand up for selection when I am in Australia.”

Leeds Rhinos Women’s head coach Lois Forsell said: “Both players have gone from strength to strength since joining Leeds and it’s been great to see them develop and go on to earn international honours. We wish them all the best in the next chapter of their careers and thank them for all they have given to the club. We continue to develop our squad, the girls are working hard throughout preseason and we are looking forward to getting going in April.”