Brian McDermott has unveiled his 23‑man England squad for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, opting to include Hull KR's dynamic play‑maker Mikey Lewis in place of the previously expected Jake Connor. The decision sparked surprise among fans because Connor, who was honored with the Super League Man of Steel award last season, delivered yet another exceptional campaign for the Hull KR side, recording an impressive 43 assists – the highest tally across the league this year. Despite his prolific contributions, the veteran was left out of the final list, a move that underscores the depth of talent available to the English coaching staff. Lewis, who has been a key figure in Hull KR’s attacking structure, earned his call‑up after amassing 17 tries and providing an additional 14 assists during the current season.
His ability to break defensive lines, create scoring opportunities and execute decisive plays made him a natural choice to fill the vacancy left by Connor. The inclusion of Lewis adds a fresh dimension to England’s backline, offering speed, vision, and a proven record of delivering points in high‑pressure situations.
The squad announcement also revealed that Wakefield Trinity prop Caleb Hamlin‑Uele and teammate Tom Johnstone withdrew from consideration due to injury concerns, while Jake Trueman was similarly omitted for the same reason. Their absences open spots for other forwards who have demonstrated resilience and form throughout the domestic campaign. England’s World Cup journey will kick off with a clash against Tonga on Saturday, 17 October, at HBF Park in Perth, Australia. The opening fixture will be followed by a second group‑stage encounter with France on 24 October, setting the stage for a demanding tournament schedule that will test the squad’s cohesion and tactical adaptability.
A notable feature of McDermott’s selection is the strong representation from the Wigan Warriors, with seven players earning places in the roster. Among them are uncapped centre Zach Eckersley, promising youngster Harry Smith, and the versatile Junior Nsemba. Their inclusion reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in Wigan’s development pathway and the ability of these players to transition smoothly to the international arena.
The squad also benefits from the recent success of Sydney Roosters lock Victor Radley, who returned to England’s fold after helping his club secure the NRL Grand Final title on Sunday. Radley’s teammate Hugo Savala, another Roosters product, secured a spot as well, adding further NRL experience to the mix.
Savala joins a group of five uncapped players selected for the tournament, which also features Eckersley, Brisbane Broncos pair Max King and Ben Talty, and St Helens’ Sam Walters. Their fresh perspectives are expected to invigorate the team’s strategic options. Returning veterans include Dally M centre of the year Herbie Farnworth and 2022 World Cup standout Dom Young, both of whom were instrumental in England’s strong showing at the previous tournament. Their continued presence provides leadership and a benchmark of performance for the newer members.
Additional NRL talent joining the squad comprises Gold Coast Titans full‑back AJ Brimson, Wests Tigers forward Kai Pearce‑Paul, and Canberra Raiders prop Morgan Smithies. These players bring a blend of physicality and skill honed in one of the world’s most competitive leagues, further enhancing England’s depth across the forward pack. From the Super League, Warrington Wolves’ skipper George Williams will once again lead the side, having guided his club to the Grand Final in the most recent season.
He is accompanied by fellow Wolves players Ashton and Currie, reinforcing the club’s influence on the national team. Hull KR’s Jez Litten also makes the squad, linking up with his clubmate Mikey Lewis, while St Helens’ Jack Welsby represents his club as the sole Wolves‑related selection.
McDermott explained the rationale behind his selections, emphasizing a "thorough and deliberate process" supported by a "unique decentralised preparation model" that allowed extensive engagement with players before the official camp began. He highlighted that the approach encouraged athletes to develop a deeper self‑awareness, recognising their individual strengths, distinguishing attributes, and areas needing improvement. This introspection, coupled with clear expectations regarding each player’s role within the England Game Model, aimed to ensure that when the squad assembled, every member already understood the standards and responsibilities required at the international level. The coach further noted that this preparatory work meant players would not arrive at camp needing to decipher their roles from scratch.
Instead, they would be primed with a comprehensive understanding of how their personal skill set integrates into England’s overall playing philosophy, allowing for a smoother transition into the high‑intensity environment of a World Cup. In summary, the 2026 England Rugby League World Cup squad blends seasoned internationals with emerging talents from both the Super League and the NRL.
The surprising omission of Jake Connor, the inclusion of Mikey Lewis, and the withdrawal of several Wakefield Trinity players due to injury have all contributed to a roster that balances experience, form, and potential. As the team prepares to face Tonga and France in Perth, the blend of proven performers and fresh faces will be tested on the world stage, with the hope that the meticulous preparation and clear role definition will translate into success throughout the tournament. List of selected 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).