Salford Red Devils Women and Swinton Lionesses play inaugural City Cup game

With Rugby League an integral part of Northern culture in England, Women's Rugby League saw its inaugural annual City Cup fixture kick off between Salford Red Devils Women and Swinton Lionesses on Sunday 15 June with a 14-0 victory to Swinton Lionesses in a competitive game. The match was attended by the Ceremonial Mayor of Salford, Councillor Heather Fletcher.

Both sides agreed for the game between the two to be the first annual match to play as part of what will be known as the Pankhurst Cup, reflecting Emmeline Pankhurst who was a significant figure in Salford and continuing the legacy of the Suffragette movement for women's rights and equality.

The first female rugby league teams in England were formed in the 1980s and in January 2022, Salford Red Devils Women played their first game against Swinton Lionesses in a pre-season friendly.

The Pankhurst Cup reflects the proud cultural heritage and vibrant sporting scene across Salford, which is embedded in the council’s work with communities to organise a successful programme of annual events for the city to maximise the health, cultural and economic benefits that sport brings while promoting diversity which is truly representative of all its communities.

Ceremonial Mayor of Salford, Councillor Heather Fletcher at Salford City Council said: “The city’s heritage and rugby history is deeply embedded in our community spirit that defines a sense of place and belonging.

“Rugby is a culture, a way of life for many, and plays a significant role in Salford's sporting identity and community life. It’s a game with inclusivity and diversity at its core, having been built on the code that was created over a hundred years ago based on the value of inclusivity for all.

“As rugby evolves, the Pankhurst Cup will stand as a testament to the sport's tradition, ensuring that its legacy endures and embodies the spirit of Rugby League in Salford as inclusive, welcoming and tolerant.”

In April, Salford City Council hosted a roundtable at the Salford Community Stadium which sought to construct a coalition of voices for a renewed commitment to supporting the North’s cultural heritage. Notable participants included Michael Wheeler MP (Worsley and Eccles), Rebecca Long-Bailey MP (Salford).

More recently, Salford played host to the official Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 trophy as part of a nationwide tour celebrating fewer than 100 days to go until the tournament kicks off, which will see Salford host several matches at Salford Community Stadium in the summer.