England’s head coach, Brian McDermott, has unveiled his 23‑man squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, confirming that Hull KR’s dynamic half‑back Mikey Lewis will take the place of the previously‑selected Jake Connor. The decision has raised eyebrows, especially because Connor, who was crowned the Super League’s Man of Steel last season, has been left out despite delivering an impressive campaign for the Hull KR Rhinos, where he recorded a league‑leading 43 assists. Lewis, who has been a key play‑maker for Hull KR, earned his call‑up after a prolific season in which he crossed the try‑line 17 times and added 14 assists. His versatility and attacking flair impressed the coaching staff, and McDermott felt his skill set would better suit the tactical blueprint England intends to employ at the tournament.
Two Wakefield Trinity forwards, prop Caleb Hamlin‑Uele and winger Tom Johnstone, withdrew from consideration after sustaining injuries that would likely have limited their availability. Similarly, centre Jake Trueman was omitted because of a lingering injury that prevented him from reaching full fitness in time for the pre‑tournament camp. England’s opening fixture in the World Cup will be against Tonga on Saturday, 17 October, at HBF Park in Perth, Australia. The squad will then travel to face France a week later on 24 October.
McDermott’s selections reflect a blend of seasoned internationals and fresh talent, with a particular emphasis on players who have demonstrated the ability to adapt to his decentralized preparation model. The squad features a strong contingent from the Wigan Warriors, with seven players earning caps.
Among them are uncapped centre Zach Eckersley, promising back‑rower Harry Smith and the emerging forward Junior Nsemba. Their inclusion signals McDermott’s confidence in Wigan’s development pathway and the depth of talent the club provides. From the NRL, Sydney Roosters lock Victor Radley, fresh from winning the NRL Grand Final, returns to the England fold.
His Roosters teammate Hugo Savala also makes the list, becoming one of five uncapped players selected for the tournament. The other newcomers are Eckersley, the Brisbane Broncos pair Max King and Ben Talty, and St Helens’ Sam Walters.
Their recent performances in Australia’s premier competition suggest they can bring a high‑tempo, physical edge to the England side. Herbie Farnworth, the Dally M Centre of the Year, and Dom Young, a Grand Final finalist and one of England’s standout performers at the 2022 World Cup, are also back in the squad. Their experience on the world stage will be vital as England seeks to improve on its previous campaign. Additional NRL representatives include Gold Coast Titans full‑back AJ Brimson, Wests Tigers centre Kai Pearce‑Paul and Canberra Raiders forward Morgan Smithies.
Their inclusion adds further depth to the back‑line and forward pack, offering a mix of speed, power and defensive solidity. Warrington Wolves, fresh from guiding their club to the Super League Grand Final, will be led once again by captain George Williams.
He is joined by fellow Wolves players Ashton and Currie, reinforcing the club’s strong representation in the national team. Hull KR’s Jez Litten also makes the squad, pairing with his club‑mate Lewis, while St Helens will be represented by Jack Welsby, the league’s youngest captain.
McDermott explained his selection philosophy, stating, "We have selected the squad after a thorough and deliberate process, underpinned by a unique decentralised preparation model that has allowed us to work closely with the players well before they come together in camp. Throughout that process, we have challenged players to develop a deeper understanding of themselves – their strengths, their point of difference, the areas they need to improve and the standards required to perform at international level." He continued, "Importantly, we have also developed a much deeper understanding of the expectations around each player's specific role within the England Game Model. The aim has been that when the players arrive in camp, they are not starting from day one trying to understand what is expected of them. They already understand their role, the standards attached to it and how their individual strengths can contribute to the way England wants to play." The final roster lists the following players: Matty Ashton (Warrington Wolves), AJ Brimson (Gold Coast Titans), Ben Currie (Warrington Wolves), Zach Eckersley (Wigan Warriors), Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins), Ethan Havard (Wigan Warriors), Max King (Bulldogs), Morgan Knowles (Dolphins), Mikey Lewis (Hull KR), Jez Litten (Hull KR), Junior Nsemba (Wigan Warriors), Brad O'Neill (Wigan Warriors), Kai Pearce‑Paul (Wests Tigers), Victor Radley (Sydney Roosters), Hugo Savala (Sydney Roosters), Harry Smith (Wigan Warriors), Morgan Smithies (Canberra Raiders), Luke Thompson (Wigan Warriors), Sam Walters (Wigan Warriors), Ben Talty (Brisbane Broncos), Jack Welsby (St Helens), George Williams (Warrington Wolves), Dom Young (Newcastle Knights).
This blend of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers aims to deliver a cohesive, high‑intensity brand of rugby league that can compete with the world’s best and bring England back to the pinnacle of the sport.