(Image: Martin Taylor)
THERE are international call ups galore going on right now at Bradford Bulls.
Waqa Blake and Esan Marsters are going to the World Cup with Fiji and Cook Islands respectively, with the two due to face off against one another on Sunday.
But the two centres are not the only ones at a World Cup this autumn, with Tom Martin playing for Ireland at the Wheelchair World Cup.
He joined Bradford at the start of August from Halifax.
But one of the more unusual call-ups has already been and gone.
Bulls Women’s Bailey Alexander won the Try of the Season award, as well as the Outstanding Contribution prize this year.
But her campaign ran into October, as she was part of the Great Britain Police Rugby League Association touring side that went out to France at the start of this month.
And on a dusty surface in the south of the country, Alexander was part of the team that won 26-0 at Racing Club Lescures Arthes XIII.
Bulls celebrate Bailey Alexander's try against Hull earlier this season. (Image: Martin Taylor)
Max Barker, the women’s captain, insisted the trip was about far more than just rugby league.
She said: “To lead this group of incredible women and pull on the Great Britain shirt here in France is a moment I will never forget.
“There is so much pride in that badge, and I know every player understands what it means to represent our country and the police.
“This is more than just a game.
“It’s about the journey, the sacrifices, the people who have supported us, and the opportunity to inspire the next generation of women and girls in rugby league and the women in the police.”
Head coach Ben Marsden added: “We talk a lot about playing for the badge and representing our country, and that’s something not many players get the opportunity to experience.
“To pull on that GB shirt and represent your country is a privilege, and one I know every player will be incredibly proud of.”