England Rugby League squad news for World Cup opener

England head coach Brian McDermott has omitted Mikey Lewis from the squad for the Rugby League World Cup opening match against Tonga. While Lewis, a Hull KR player, was among the half-back options, he was not selected for the match-day squad. Instead, captain George Williams and Harry Smith will occupy the half-back positions.

In other selection decisions, AJ Brimson has been chosen to start at full-back ahead of Jack Welsby. The England squad includes several heritage players, such as Max King, Hugo Savala, and Victor Radley. The team is scheduled to face Tonga in Perth, followed by matches against France and Papua New Guinea.

In the women’s competition, England coach Stu Barrow has named Jasmin Strange, Connie Boyd, and Hope Millard for their international debuts ahead of the opening match against Wales.