Wigan Warriors re-sign Academy product from St Helens

Salihi played her amateur rugby at Thatto Heath Crusaders and Leigh Miners Rangers before playing for the Warriors Academy in 2022.

She was promoted to the first team in 2023 and made her debut in a 22-22 draw with Warrington Wolves, going on to play 13 games and scoring three tries.

The full-back then joined St.Helens in November 2023, where she was handed the No.1 shirt for both 2024 and 2025 seasons, playing 37 games and scoring 15 tries across both campaigns.

Salihi added her first silverware in 2024 after starting at full-back at Wembley as St Helens beat Leeds Rhinos to lift the Challenge Cup before adding a League Leaders’ Shield in the same year.

She has also featured frequently for Lancashire in the Women’s Origin, and has aspirations to play for England in the future.

“I’m excited to be rejoining Wigan ahead of the 2026 season," she said. "This is the club that gave me my first opportunity in the Women’s Super League when I was 17, and returning now feels like it’s the right step for me.

"I can’t wait to be back, the support at Wigan is amazing and the Wigan fans have always been really good to me whenever I’ve returned to play against them, and I’ve always appreciated that.

“I grew up playing alongside many of the girls in the squad, and hearing how much they enjoy the environment, how much they’ve developed under Denis Betts and how positive the atmosphere is only makes me even more excited to return.

"They’ve always played with a smile and that’s what I want to find - that enjoyment in rugby again and play at my best.

“I know breaking into this Wigan side won’t be easy after the fantastic season they’ve had, but I’m excited for this challenge and believe it will bring the best out of me.

"I want to thank St.Helens for the last two years, leaving was not easy. I’m truly grateful for everything the club has done for me, the friends I’ve made, the incredible fans and memories I’ll carry with me forever.”