Shaun Wane Names Squad for Third ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes Test
England Head Coach Shaun Wane is focused on finishing the Ashes Series on a high note at Headingley. He has announced his 19-player squad for the third and final ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes Test, scheduled for Saturday, 8 November, at 2:30 p.m. at AMT Headingley Stadium.
New and Returning Players
Hull KR’s standout winger Joe Burgess joins the 19-man squad for the first time in this series. Burgess last represented England in 2015 during a victorious series against New Zealand, early in his Wigan years. He replaces Dom Young, who suffered a broken foot in last weekend’s defeat to Australia at Everton.
Leeds centre Harry Newman is also included and may make his first appearance of the series on his home ground. His previous international outing came at Headingley in 2024 when England secured a 2-0 series win over Samoa.
Veterans and Consistent Performers
Kallum Watkins, also from Leeds, retains his place as the most-capped player with 30 international appearances. Should he play, this will be his first England match at Headingley. Team-mate Mikolaj Oledzki, the third Leeds representative, again features in the line-up after maintaining his form through the series.
“John Bateman remains unavailable following an ankle injury sustained before the Second Test.”
Author’s Summary
Shaun Wane’s lineup blends experience and fresh energy as England aims to finish the Ashes Series strong at Headingley.