Jake Connor, the high‑profile play‑maker from Leeds Rhinos, has been excluded from the 23‑man England roster that will compete in the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. The decision, announced by head coach Brian McDermond, comes as a surprise to many observers, given Connor's standout performances in the Super League and his reputation as one of the sport's most dynamic creators. The World Cup is set to take place across three nations—Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea—throughout October and November.
England will open its campaign on 17 October in Perth, where they face Tonga, before meeting France and the host nation Papua New Guinea in subsequent fixtures. Despite a proud history that includes runner‑up finishes in 1975, 1995 and 2017, and a semi‑final appearance on home soil in 2021, the squad selection has already generated considerable debate. Connor's omission is particularly noteworthy because he was the league's "Man of Steel" award winner last season and finished the campaign atop the Super League assist leaderboard with 43 entries. Those statistics underline his ability to unlock defences and create scoring opportunities for teammates, qualities that have often been cited as essential for success on the international stage.
The controversy surrounding Connor is not new. Earlier this year, he was also left out of the England squad for the home Ashes series against Australia, a three‑match test that ended in a 3‑0 whitewash for the Kangaroos.
Former England coach Shaun Wane made the decision, and the exclusion sparked a media firestorm. Many fans and pundits argued that Connor's skill set and recent form warranted inclusion, while others pointed to off‑field factors and perceived attitude issues. When Brian McDermond took over the national side after Wane's resignation, he quickly became a vocal defender of the Leeds star.
In an interview in April, McDermond said, "The narrative surrounding Jake has been wildly unfair. He is a polarising figure—some people like him, some people don’t—but that is part of any sport. We could argue endlessly about his personality, but the facts are clear: he is an exceptional player, a genuine game‑breaker." McDermond's comments highlight a broader discussion within rugby league about how personal reputation and media portrayal can influence selection decisions. While the coach emphasized Connor's on‑field contributions, he also hinted that the public discourse had become a distraction, suggesting that the focus should remain on performance metrics rather than personality judgments.
Looking ahead, the final England squad will be revealed on Monday. One name that is expected to make the cut in Connor's place is Hull KR fullback Mikey Lewis, a young and versatile back known for his speed and defensive reliability.
Lewis has impressed throughout the Super League season, and his inclusion would bring a different dimension to England's backline, potentially balancing the loss of Connor's play‑making flair. The decision also raises tactical questions for England's coaching staff. Without Connor's vision and passing range, the team may need to rely more heavily on other halves and centers to orchestrate attacks.
Players such as Sam Tomkins, James Roby, and the emerging talent of Sam Tomkins' younger brother could see increased responsibility. Additionally, the coaching team may look to bolster its kicking game and defensive organization to compensate for the creative void left by Connor's absence. From a broader perspective, England's preparation for the World Cup has been marked by a mixture of optimism and caution.
The squad boasts a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, and the coaching staff has emphasized a commitment to a fast‑paced, attacking style of play. However, the omission of a player of Connor's caliber underscores the fine line coaches must walk between rewarding form, managing squad harmony, and addressing any off‑field concerns.
Fans will be watching closely as the tournament unfolds. England's opening match against Tonga will be a stern test; the Pacific Islanders are known for their physicality and explosive play. A strong start could set the tone for a deep run, while an early stumble might amplify scrutiny over selection choices, including the decision to leave Connor out. In summary, Jake Connor's exclusion from England's Rugby League World Cup roster is a decision that has sparked debate across the sport.
While his statistical achievements and recent accolades suggest he deserves a place, the coaching staff have opted for a different direction, possibly prioritizing team cohesion and alternative skill sets. The upcoming squad announcement will confirm whether Mikey Lewis or another player will fill the role Connor might have played, and the tournament itself will provide the ultimate verdict on whether England's choices were justified.