England Rugby League Head Coach Shaun Wane has announced a 24-player squad for the upcoming ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes Series, with the first Test scheduled at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, October 25.
The announcement features a mix of in-form Super League stars and proven NRL performers, as Wane aims for England’s first Ashes victory in over 50 years.
Notably, Joe Burgess is recalled for the first time since 2015 after scoring twice in Hull KR’s Grand Final defeat.
Mikey Lewis (this year's Rob Burrow award recipient) and Jez Litten both join the squad too, after playing key roles in the Robins’ historic treble-winning campaign.
The NRL contingent includes Dom Young, Herbie Farnworth, Kai Pearce-Paul, Morgan Smithies, and John Bateman, adding vital international experience to the squad.
AJ Brimson (Gold Coast Titans) is also selected after switching allegiance through his English heritage.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Speaking after the squad reveal, Wane said:
"I’m really excited by the 24 players we’ve selected.
"There were some tough decisions, but this group gives us the best chance of winning the Ashes.
"The return of the series has been a long time coming, and I know our fans will make Wembley electric."
St Helens provides the strongest representation with five players, while Hull KR, Leeds Rhinos, and Wigan Warriors each contribute three.
Full England Squad (with clubs)
- John Bateman (North Queensland Cowboys)
- AJ Brimson (Gold Coast Titans)
- Joe Burgess (Hull KR)
- Daryl Clark (St Helens)
- Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins)
- Ethan Havard (Wigan Warriors)
- Morgan Knowles (St Helens)
- Matty Lees (St Helens)
- Mikey Lewis (Hull KR)
- Jez Litten (Hull KR)
- Mike McMeeken (Wakefield Trinity)
- Harry Newman (Leeds Rhinos)
- Mikolaj Oledzki (Leeds Rhinos)
- Tom Johnstone (Wakefield Trinity)
- Kai Pearce-Paul (Newcastle Knights)
- Harry Smith (Wigan Warriors)
- Morgan Smithies (Canberra Raiders)
- Owen Trout (Leigh Leopards)
- Alex Walmsley (St Helens)
- Jake Wardle (Wigan Warriors)
- Kallum Watkins (Leeds Rhinos)
- Jack Welsby (St Helens)
- George Williams(c) (Warrington Wolves)
- Dom Young (Newcastle Knights)
With the first Test fast approaching, England’s blend of power, pace and experience gives Wane hope that this squad can finally reclaim the Ashes from Australia - and set a new standard for international rugby league.
More from The Sporting News:
- Does sacking the gaffer still work in the Championship?
- Who can qualify for the World Cup this week?
- Littler storms to World Grand Prix title