Shaun Wane Names Squad for Third ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes Test
England Head Coach Shaun Wane is focused on ending the Ashes Series on a victorious note at Headingley. He has confirmed the 19-player squad for the third and final ABK Rugby League Beer Ashes Test at AMT Headingley Stadium on Saturday, 8 November, with a 2:30pm kick-off.
Key Squad Selections
- Joe Burgess, a vital part of Hull KR’s treble-winning 2025 season, joins the squad for the first time in the series. He will make his first England appearance since the 2015 series victory over New Zealand early in his Wigan career.
- Burgess replaces Dom Young, who is out with a broken foot sustained during last Saturday’s loss to the Kangaroos at Everton.
- Harry Newman, the Leeds centre, is also selected and could play for the first time in the series on his home club ground. His last international game was at AMT Headingley when England secured a 2-0 series win over Samoa in 2024.
Experienced Players and Squad Stability
- Kallum Watkins, Newman’s teammate at Leeds Rhinos, is the squad’s most-capped player with 30 England appearances and is poised to make his first international appearance at AMT Headingley.
- Mikolaj Oledzki, another Leeds player and prop forward, retains his spot in the 19-player squad.
- John Bateman remains sidelined after rolling his ankle before the Second Test.
"Joe Burgess is set to make his first England appearance since a 2015 series victory over New Zealand – in the early years of his career with Wigan."
"Newman’s last international appearance came at AMT Headingley as England sealed a 2-0 series win over Samoa in 2024."
Shaun Wane’s squad updates reflect a blend of fresh talent and seasoned experience aimed at delivering a strong finish in the Ashes series.
Author’s summary: The England Rugby League squad for the final Ashes Test blends returning veterans and impactful newcomers, reflecting a strategic push to close the series with a win at Headingley.