England’s senior coach, Brian McDermott, has bolstered his performance squad in preparation for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup by calling up Leigh Leopards centre Umyla Hanley and Sydney Roosters scrum‑half Hugo Savala. Both players have demonstrated outstanding form in their respective domestic competitions, earning them a place in the extended group of athletes from which the final World Cup roster will be selected. Umyla Hanley, a dynamic back‑line option for the Leopards, has enjoyed a standout season since returning from a long‑term injury in May.
His impact has been immediate and decisive: he has crossed the try‑line six times and set up an additional ten scores, contributing directly to Leigh’s impressive run of nine victories in the twelve matches in which he has featured. Hanley’s performances have not gone unnoticed at the league level – he was honoured as a member of the Super League Dream Team for the 2025 campaign, an accolade that underscores his status as one of the competition’s premier centres.
His blend of speed, footwork, and defensive reliability makes him a valuable asset for any side, and McDermott’s decision to bring him into the England set‑up reflects the coach’s desire to reward form and fitness ahead of the tournament. The second addition, Hugo Savala, has been a key figure in the Sydney Roosters’ charge to the top of the NRL ladder. At 24 years of age, the Randwick‑born play‑maker has already recorded eight tries this season, a notable achievement for a player whose primary role is to organise the attack and distribute the ball. Savala’s upbringing in the Roosters’ development system has equipped him with a strong tactical understanding and a polished skill set that includes crisp passing, strategic kicking, and a keen eye for exploiting defensive lapses.
Although he was born in Australia, he qualifies for England through his mother, who was born in the United Kingdom, thereby meeting the eligibility criteria for the national side. McDermott explained the rationale behind the late‑stage inclusions, saying, “When we first announced the 38‑man England Performance Group we made it clear that the door remained open for any player who could prove his worth before the final World Cup squad is named. Umyla and Hugo have seized that opportunity with their exceptional form for Leigh Leopards and Sydney Roosters respectively.” He added that the current phase of the season is the most demanding and competitive period of the campaign, and that strong performances in the remaining regular‑season fixtures and the playoffs could still sway selection decisions.
“There is still plenty of space for a player to force his way into the reckoning,” McDermott emphasized, underscoring the merit‑based nature of his selection policy. The inclusion of Hanley and Savala comes at a crucial juncture for England, as the team prepares for a demanding World Cup schedule.
The England men’s side will open their tournament campaign on 17 October at HBF Park in Perth, where they will face a physically robust Tonga side. A week later, on 24 October, the English squad will travel to the same venue to take on France, a match that promises a tactical battle between two European powerhouses. The group stage will conclude with a clash against Papua New Guinea at WIN Stadium in Wollongong on 30 October, offering England a final opportunity to secure a top‑two finish and a place in the knockout rounds.
Beyond the two new additions, the broader England roster features a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents drawn from the Super League, the NRL, and other elite competitions. Notable names include junior forward Junior Nsemba, prop Ethan Havard, and lock Luke Thompson, all of whom have been regular fixtures in the national setup.
The squad also boasts a strong contingent from the Wigan Warriors—Sam Walters, Brad O’Neill, Jake Wardle, Harry Smith, and Zach Eckersley—who bring a wealth of experience in high‑pressure matches. From Leeds Rhinos, the likes of Kallum Watkins, Mikolaj Oledzki, Ash Handley, and Jake Connor add depth to the forward pack and backline. Warrington Wolves contribute several key players, including Ben Currie, Danny Walker, George Williams, and Matty Ashton, while Hull KR supplies a trio of hard‑working athletes: Kai Pearce‑Paul, Dean Hadley, and Jez Litten, alongside the versatile Mikey Lewis.
The NRL‑based contingent features Canberra Raiders forward Morgan Smithies, fellow Raider Jayden Brailey, and a strong Roosters representation with Victor Radley, Billy Smith, and Hugo Savala himself. The Dolphins add Morgan Knowles and Herbie Farnworth, and St Helens provide a core of experienced campaigners in Jack Welsby, Alex Walmsley, Daryl Clark, and Harry Robertson.
Wakefield’s roster includes Mike McMeeken, Caleb Hamlin‑Uele, Jake Trueman, and Tom Johnstone, while the Canterbury Bulldogs send Max King, and the Brisbane Broncos are represented by Ben Talty. Finally, the Newcastle Knights contribute Dominic Young, rounding out a squad that blends physicality, skill, and international experience.
The strategic addition of Hanley and Savala highlights England’s intent to field a versatile and adaptable team capable of responding to the varied styles they will encounter in the World Cup. Hanley’s ability to break the line and create scoring opportunities complements Savala’s play‑making acumen and his capacity to control the tempo of the game from the halves.
Together, they provide Coach McDermott with additional options when constructing his match‑day line‑ups, whether he chooses to emphasize a more expansive attacking approach or a tighter, defense‑first strategy. Fans eager to follow England’s journey can keep up with live Super League action, purchase tickets for upcoming fixtures, and track the latest standings on the official league website. The Bench podcast, hosted by Jenna and Jon, offers in‑depth analysis and behind‑the‑scenes insight into player performances and tactical trends.
For the best viewing experience, the league recommends using the Chrome browser to access the video player, ensuring smooth streaming of matches and highlights. As the World Cup draws nearer, the pressure will mount on all squad members to maintain peak fitness and form. The coaching staff, led by McDermott, will continue to monitor player performances, injury status, and tactical fit, making final selections as the tournament approaches. The inclusion of Hanley and Savala serves as a reminder that the England performance group remains a fluid, merit‑based environment where hard work and results can earn a place on the world stage.
The upcoming weeks will be decisive for those on the cusp of selection, and the final roster will reflect the blend of experience, youth, and form that England hopes will propel them deep into the competition.