Jasmin Strange’s hopes of facing her Roosters teammates at the Rugby League World Cup have been dashed after she tore her ACL in a “freak training accident”.
Strange, who represents England on the international stage, was forced to leave training early on Wednesday to go for scans after she stepped awkwardly on the ball and went down with a nasty knee injury.
Jasmin Strange scored on debut with England. Getty Images
Scan results confirmed Strange’s dream to face Australia – a nation she could have represented but elected not to – would be cruelly denied.
“It is a real disappointing outcome for someone who has been excellent for us,” England coach Stuart Barrow said.
“She’s mixed with the girls really well and to lose her in training was a devastating blow for all the girls. It flatlined the group and it flatlined the coaching staff, but we’ve bounced back.
“I went to the hospital with her last night and the scan confirmed our worst fears.”
The 23-year-old returned to team camp after leaving the hospital on Wednesday.
It is a nightmare end to the season for Strange, given her impressive undefeated run with the Sydney Roosters, culminating in an NRLW premiership, which earned her an England debut against Wales.
Strange had been weighing up her international allegiance in the build-up to the World Cup, having been eligible to represent Australia, England or New Zealand.
The three-time premiership winner, who is the sister of NRL star Ethan and daughter of gun coach John, has four caps with the Maori All Stars and has revealed previously that she considered representing the Kiwis.
In the end, she decided to represent another part of her heritage.
The Jillaroos will face England in Perth on Saturday night at HBF Park in Perth.