‘Always stood out’: England coach talks up chances of AJ Brimson Ashes debut

Sayantan Guha

‘Always stood out’: England coach talks up chances of AJ Brimson Ashes debut image

Shaun Wane has dropped his strongest indication yet that AJ Brimson could feature in England’s Ashes squad this autumn, praising the Titans star’s versatility and hinting he is firmly in contention for selection.

Brimson, 27, is eligible for England through his mother’s heritage and has already declared his desire to represent the national side. 

With the three-Test series against Australia beginning in London next month, Wane admitted the utility is high on his radar.

‘A player I rate very highly’

“I was very pleased when AJ said he wanted to play for England, and we are continuing to consider him,” Wane said. “He’s a very versatile player, which is perfect for a three-Test series. He is a player I rate very highly and a good athlete. In a team that was struggling this year, he has always stood out.”

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The Gold Coast man has experience at fullback, half-back and centre, putting him in direct contention with Jack Welsby while also offering flexibility across the backline.

Brimson himself is hopeful of a call-up, saying: “Fingers crossed, if I get the chance, it is going to be an amazing opportunity to represent England on my mum’s side. I’ve got a lot of family over there. The season is over, but I will keep training hard and hope for that call.”

With Wane’s final squad set to be named after the Super League season concludes, Brimson could join other NRL-based England hopefuls such as Herbie Farnworth and Kai Pearce-Paul.

Sayantan Guha

Sayantan Guha is a content producer for The Sporting News working across English-language editions.