England coach Brian McDermott has confirmed his 19-man lineup will remain unchanged for this Saturday’s Rugby League World Cup match against France in Perth. The decision comes despite a challenging 30-12 opening defeat to Tonga, a result that marked England’s first-ever loss to the nation and placed the team’s progression to the semi-finals in jeopardy. AJ Brimson retains his place at full-back in the XIII with Jack Welsby among the interchanges.
To secure a path to the knockout stages, England faces a difficult road ahead.
The squad must aim for decisive victories in their remaining group fixtures against France and Papua New Guinea on 30 October. Against France next Saturday and Papua New Guinea on 30 October, to stand a realistic chance of progression – and because of the World Cup’s format, probably need to win them both b, england must win their next two games.
Given the tournament’s specific format, McDermott’s side likely requires large winning margins in both encounters.
Even with strong performances, the final outcome may not be decided until 2 November, when Tonga plays 2022 finalists Samoa in their final group game. Even then, there is the strong possibility that England will not know their fate for certain until two days later, when Tonga face 2022 finalists Samoa in their last group game.
Squad Selection and Team News
- Starting XIII: AJ Brimson, Dom Young, Hugo Savala, Herbie Farnworth, Zach Eckersley, George Williams, Harry Smith, Max King, Brad O’Neill, Luke Thompson, Junior Nsemba, Kai Pearce-Paul, and Victor Radley.
- Interchange: Jez Litten, Ben Currie, Ethan Havard, Sam Walters, Jack Welsby, and Matty Ashton.
- Reserves: Kallum Watkins, Mikey Lewis, and Ben Talty.
Luke Thompson maintains his position at prop, as Morgan Knowles remains sidelined with an injury sustained before the Tonga match. Despite facing criticism after being overpowered in the previous round, Harry Smith will continue to partner with captain George Williams in the centre. Meanwhile, Mikey Lewis remains out of the starting selection, continuing his absence following his debated inclusion in the squad ahead of the 2025 Super League Man of Steel, Jake Connor.
The match against France is scheduled to kick off at 07:35 BST. Fans can follow live commentary of this match, along with other key men’s and women’s fixtures, through Radio 5 Live, Radio 5 Sports Extra, Sounds platform, and the official Sport website and app.
