Brian McDermott has announced his 23‑man England lineup for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, opting to include Hull KR’s Mikey Lewis in place of Jake Connor. The decision raised eyebrows because Connor, who captured last season’s Super League Man of Steel award, was a standout performer for the Rhinos, delivering a league‑leading 43 assists throughout the campaign. His omission therefore came as a surprise to many observers.
Lewis, the Hull KR playmaker, steps into the vacant spot after a prolific season in which he crossed the try line 17 times and added another 14 assists. His attacking flair and versatility make him a valuable addition to a squad that is looking to blend experience with fresh talent. Two Wakefield Trinity forwards, prop Caleb Hamlin‑Uele and winger Tom Johnstone, also withdrew from the selection process after sustaining injuries, while Jake Trueman missed out for the same reason. Their absence further opened the door for other players to earn a place in the tournament roster.
England’s World Cup journey will kick off against Tonga on Saturday, 17 October, at HBF Park in Perth, Australia. The Lions will then take on France a week later on 24 October. The schedule promises a demanding start, and McDermott’s selections reflect a balance of seasoned internationals and emerging prospects.
The squad features a strong Wigan Warriors contingent, with seven players named, including uncapped centre Zach Eckersley, Harry Smith and Junior Nsemba. Their inclusion highlights the depth of talent emerging from the Super League’s premier club. After the Sydney Roosters clinched the NRL Grand Final, lock Victor Radley returns to the England fold, and his teammate Hugo Savala also secures a place.
Savala joins four other uncapped players – Eckersley, Brisbane Broncos pair Max King and Ben Talty, and Sam Walters – signaling McDermott’s willingness to inject new blood into the side. Two of England’s most impactful performers from the 2022 World Cup, Dally M centre of the year Herbie Farnworth and NRL Grand Finalist Dom Young, are back in the mix, bringing valuable experience from the southern hemisphere competition. They will be supported by a further quartet of NRL representatives: Gold Coast Titans full‑back AJ Brimson, Wests Tigers forward Kai Pearce‑Paul, and Canberra Raiders prop Morgan Smithies, each of whom has shown the ability to perform at the highest level. Warrington Wolves, fresh from guiding their club to the Super League Grand Final, see captain George Williams retain his leadership role.
He is joined by fellow Wolves – Ashton and Currie – adding continuity to the forward pack. Hull KR’s own Jez Litten also makes the squad, pairing with Lewis to provide a strong Hull KR representation. St Helens contributes Jack Welsby as its sole nominee, rounding out the mix of club affiliations. McDermott explained his selection philosophy, emphasizing a “decentralised preparation model” that allowed him to engage with players individually well before the official camp began.
He said the process encouraged athletes to gain a deeper self‑awareness, identifying personal strengths, unique attributes, and areas for improvement, while also clarifying the standards required for international competition. According to McDermott, this approach ensured that each player arrived at the training camp with a clear understanding of their role within England’s Game Model, eliminating the need for a steep learning curve once the squad assembled.
The coach highlighted that the aim was for players to be fully prepared from day one, knowing the expectations tied to their specific positions and how their individual skill sets could contribute to the team’s overall style of play. This strategic clarity is intended to foster a cohesive unit capable of executing a dynamic, high‑tempo game plan against the world’s best. Listed players include: 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 seasoned veterans and promising newcomers positions England as a formidable contender as the tournament unfolds.