Heartbreak for England Rugby League Star: Vicky Molyneux Ruled Out of Final Due to Health Concerns
June 5, 2025 — London, UK
In a devastating blow to the England Women’s Rugby League team and fans across the country, veteran forward Vicky Molyneux has officially been ruled out of the upcoming final due to health concerns. The decision was confirmed by team officials late last night following medical assessments that deemed her unfit to play.
Molyneux, 36, a stalwart of the English game and a beloved figure in international rugby league, was set to bring her trademark toughness and experience to what promised to be one of the most important matches of her illustrious career. However, concerns over her recent health struggles have led the medical team to advise against her participation in the final, prioritizing her long-term well-being over short-term ambition.
“This is absolutely heartbreaking,” Molyneux said in a statement released via England Rugby League. “To miss out on the final is a bitter pill to swallow, especially knowing how much this game means to me and the team. But I trust the advice of the medical team and I know it’s the right decision for my health.”
The exact nature of her condition has not been disclosed out of respect for her privacy, but team officials have confirmed it is not life-threatening. Sources close to the team suggest that Molyneux had been undergoing treatment and was pushing hard in training to be fit for the final, but unfortunately, her body didn’t respond as hoped.
“She’s been immense throughout the campaign — on and off the pitch,” said England Women’s Head Coach Craig Richards. “Vicky is a warrior and one of the most respected figures in the sport. This is a huge loss, not just in terms of what she brings physically, but her leadership, her presence, her calming voice in the dressing room. We will be playing for her on Saturday.”
Teammates have rallied around the 2021 Woman of Steel nominee, with many taking to social media to express their love and support.
“Absolutely gutted for you, Vick,” wrote teammate Jodie Cunningham. “We’ll do this for you. Your fight, your spirit — it’ll be with us every second out there.”
Molyneux’s absence will leave a significant gap in England’s forward pack, and while depth in the squad will provide options, replacing her unique mix of grit, intelligence, and passion won’t be easy. She has been a cornerstone of England’s efforts in recent years, known not only for her tough tackling and clever ball work but also for mentoring younger players and setting standards behind the scenes.
This news comes at a particularly poignant time, as many had speculated this final could mark the end of Molyneux’s international career — a chance for her to bow out on the highest stage, possibly with a championship medal around her neck. Whether she will return to the field in the future remains uncertain.
“I’m still processing this,” Molyneux said. “But I’ll be there on the sidelines, cheering louder than anyone else. This team has my whole heart, and I believe they can finish what we started.”
England will now have to regroup emotionally and tactically ahead of Saturday’s final, where they will face a formidable opponent. While the squad remains focused, there is no denying that the absence of one of its most inspirational figures will loom large.
For fans and teammates alike, Vicky Molyneux may not wear the jersey this weekend — but her spirit, her fight, and her legacy will surely be stitched into every tackle and every play on that field.
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