England’s head coach, Brian McDermott, has officially named George Williams as the skipper for the nation’s squad heading to next month’s Rugby League World Cup. The decision comes after Williams’ remarkable comeback from a serious neck injury that required surgery in April.
After a period of rehabilitation, he returned to the field in August and immediately made an impact for the Warrington Wolves, driving the team forward in their push for a Super League Grand Final berth. Williams’ resurgence has been a key storyline in the Super League playoffs. Warrington will meet Hull KR in the elimination round this Saturday, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The victor will go on to face the Wigan Warriors in the semi‑finals, with the ultimate prize – a place in the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October – still up for grabs. McDermott praised the former Leeds player’s leadership qualities, noting that his influence has been “really good” since returning to full fitness. "I didn’t really know George at all," McDermott admitted. "In fact, I didn’t know many of the squad at all, to be fair.
I’ve only ever shaken their hands after games." He recalled the first time he met Williams on the field, when Leeds defeated his own side, and added that the former Leeds captain’s determination was evident even while he was sidelined. "He was the first name that came to mind whenever anyone was making an early comeback from injury – it would be him." The coach was quick to highlight the way Williams approaches the game. "He’s not waiting for the ball to come to him; he’s out there chasing it, putting his foot in the tackle, and making the hard yards.
That’s George Williams in a nutshell." When Williams first broke into first‑grade rugby league, McDermott and his colleagues were struck by his relentless drive. "We all thought, ‘who the hell’s this guy?’ because he was always getting the ball, testing the opposition, and exploiting any defensive lapses," McDermott said.
Over the years, the player has added strength and tactical awareness to his natural aggression, making him a more complete and seasoned leader. Williams’ appointment as captain almost guarantees that he will occupy one of the half‑back positions for England, a decision that opens a debate about who will partner him in the halves. Several candidates are in contention, including Mikey Lewis, Jake Connor, Harry Smith and Hugo Savala. McDermott hinted that only three of these players will travel to the World Cup, which will be staged across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea from 15 October to 15 November.
"Whether we take a six‑and‑seven to back up the six‑and‑seven I have in mind to start, I’m still not sure," McDermott explained. "We certainly need another half‑back as cover, but adding two halves reduces the spots we have for outside backs, back‑rowers and other spine positions.
Form and versatility will guide the final selections." He added that a player capable of covering both the halves and the hooker role (the number nine) would be especially valuable. "If a guy can play in the halves but also slot in at nine, I might favour that as well. The spine positions are always a tough puzzle," McDermott said, noting that the final playoff matches will provide further clarity on who can handle the pressure of a World Cup campaign. In addition to naming the captain, McDermott confirmed the coaching team for the tournament.
Former England greats Sean O’Loughlin and Paul Wellens will serve as assistant coaches. "We’ve had a lot of contact – Teams calls, phone calls, the three of us discussing squads, tactics, defensive strategies and the state of the game," McDermott said.
He praised both assistants for their professionalism and experience, emphasizing that they have consistently represented England with pride, regardless of the result. "They’re full‑time players – O’Loughlin with Wigan and Wellens with the Cowboys – so I’m careful not to disturb them at odd hours. They’re not being paid for this extra work, but they’ve been incredibly supportive and insightful," McDermott added. The Super League play‑offs kick off on Friday, 18 September, with Wakefield Trinity hosting Leigh Leopards at 8 pm on Sky Sports.
The following day, Warrington Wolves face Hull KR at 5.30 pm, also on Sky Sports. Semi‑final action continues with Leeds Rhinos slated to play a yet‑to‑be‑determined opponent on Friday, 25 September, and Wigan Warriors taking on another unknown side on Saturday, 26 September. The season will culminate with the Grand Final at Old Trafford on 3 October, capping a dramatic run that has seen Williams rise from injury to captaincy and cement his status as one of England’s most influential play‑makers.