Amy Hardcastle, England women's all-time record try scorer, has officially retired from international rugby league. The 37-year-old St Helens centre scored an impressive 30 tries in just 29 appearances for her country, making her debut in 2009. Hardcastle is stepping away from the international scene just a month before the Rugby League World Cup, which will take place in Australia later this year. However, she will continue her rugby league career at the club level, where she has been a key player for St Helens. Hardcastle's career has been marked by numerous achievements, including being the only England player selected in the Women's Team of the Decade. This honor was announced in 2020 by the National Rugby League (NRL) to celebrate the standout players of the 2010s. Her international career has spanned three Rugby League World Cups, showcasing her consistency and dedication to the sport. In a heartfelt statement, Hardcastle expressed her pride and gratitude for representing England. "Representing England has been the greatest honour of my rugby league career," she said. "To wear the national shirt, play alongside so many incredible teammates and represent my family, clubs, and community has meant everything to me." She added that after much reflection, she feels it's the right time to step away from the international game, while expressing her pride in the progress made by women's rugby league during her career. England's head coach, Stuart Barrow, praised Hardcastle for her contributions to the sport. "She has been an outstanding ambassador for the sport, a role model for young players, and someone who has consistently driven standards on and off the field," Barrow said. He highlighted her professionalism, resilience, and commitment to the England program, as well as her ability to inspire teammates and elevate the profile of women's rugby league both nationally and internationally. England's first match of the Rugby League World Cup will be against Wales in Perth on 17 October. Hardcastle has expressed her full support for the current squad, wishing them every success in their campaign. Her legacy in the sport will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players.