Paige Travis Returns to St Helens After NRLW Season with Parramatta Eels; Back Row Re-signing Achieved

St Helens Rugby League Welcomes Back Paige travis After NRLW Stint

St Helens, England – November 29, 2025 – St Helens have secured the return of England international Paige Travis, the dynamic back rower re-signing with the club after a single season with the Parramatta eels in the NRLW. The 26-year-old enjoyed a hugely triumphant six-year spell with Saints previously, playing a pivotal role in their dominant period in women’s rugby league.

Travis was instrumental in St Helens’ historic treble-winning season in 2021,securing the Women’s Challenge Cup,League Leaders’ Shield,and Women’s Super League titles. She further cemented her legacy with four consecutive Challenge Cup victories between 2021 and 2024 before embarking on a two-year contract with Parramatta at the start of 2025.

However, after 11 appearances for the Eels, Travis has been released and has chosen to return to her former club. “Saints never realy left me,” travis stated. “The club’s support meant everything. I wanted to go and explore that chance and I had their backing, and that’s why this is the only club I would ever come back to.”

Travis believes her experience in the full-time professional surroundings of the NRLW has made her a better player. “I think I’m coming back home as a better player, on and off the pitch. I’ve learned a lot… which is somthing I hope the Women’s Super League can do one day.”

An established international, Travis boasts nine caps for england, including appearances at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup and against australia in Las Vegas earlier this year.

Head coach Craig Richards expressed his delight at securing Travis’s return, highlighting the strength of the club’s program and culture. “Every club in the UK would want her, and that shows how highly valued the programme we run here is,” Richards said. “It speaks volumes about our culture and how we treat people because, in Paige’s mind, it was always about coming back to Saints.”

This re-signing is a meaningful boost for St Helens as they look to continue their success in the Women’s Super League. It also underscores the growing appeal of the league and the increasing opportunities for players to gain experience in international competitions like the NRLW.

What impact did Paige Travis have on the Parramatta Eels during the 2025 NRLW season?

Travis’s Journey Down Under & Back to the Red Vee

England international Paige Travis is set to return to St Helens Women for the 2026 season, following a stint with the Parramatta Eels in the NRLW. The re-signing of the dynamic back-rower is a significant boost for the Super League champions as they prepare to defend their title. Travis’s move to the NRLW in 2025 represented a major step in her career, offering valuable experience in a highly competitive league.

NRLW Experience with the Parramatta Eels

Travis joined the Parramatta Eels for the 2025 NRLW season,becoming a key part of their squad. Her time in Australia allowed her to develop her skills against some of the best players in the world, enhancing her game awareness and physicality.

* International Recognition: Before her move, Travis had already established herself as a prominent figure in the England Rugby League team, featuring in the 2022 rugby League World Cup.

* Rochdale Roots: Hailing from Rochdale, Travis’s journey to the NRLW highlights the growing talent pool within English Rugby League.

* Impact on the Eels: While specific match statistics from the 2025 NRLW season are still being compiled, reports indicate Travis made a considerable impact on the Eels’ performance with her strong tackling and powerful runs.

Why St Helens Welcomes Back Travis

The return of Paige Travis to St Helens is seen as a coup for the club. Her experience in the NRLW will undoubtedly benefit the team, bringing a new level of intensity and tactical understanding.

* super League Dominance: St Helens Women have been a dominant force in the Betfred Women’s Super League,and Travis’s re-signing strengthens their position as title contenders.

* Leadership Qualities: Travis is known for her leadership both on and off the field, providing a positive influence on her teammates.

* Back row Strength: the back row is a crucial position in Rugby League, and Travis’s return adds significant depth and power to st Helens’ forward pack.

The Growing Trend of Cross-Hemisphere Players

Travis’s move to the NRLW and subsequent return to the Super League exemplifies a growing trend of players gaining experience in both hemispheres. This exchange of talent benefits both leagues, raising the overall standard of the game.

* Skill Development: Playing in different leagues exposes players to varied playing styles and tactical approaches, broadening their skillset.

* Globalisation of Rugby League: The movement of players contributes to the globalisation of Rugby League, fostering greater international competition and fan engagement.

* Increased Competition: The influx of experienced players from overseas increases competition for places in domestic leagues,driving up performance levels.

What This Means for the 2026 Season

With Travis back in the red Vee, St Helens fans have reason to be optimistic about the 2026 season. Her experience, combined with the existing talent within the squad, makes them a formidable force.

* Pre-Season Preparation: Travis will be focused on a strong pre-season with St Helens, building her fitness and integrating back into the team’s systems.

* Super League Ambitions: The club’s ambition will be to retain their Super League title and potentially compete on the international stage.

* England Future: Travis’s continued development will also be crucial for the England Women’s team as they prepare for future international competitions.