England head coach Brian McDermott has made a significant selection call ahead of the Rugby League World Cup, leaving Hull KR half-back Mikey Lewis out of the matchday 17 for Saturday’s opening fixture against Tonga in Perth.
Instead, McDermott has opted for a half-back pairing of Harry Smith alongside captain George Williams, with Lewis relegated to non-playing reserve status. The Hull KR playmaker will travel to Australia but will not feature in the squad available for the tournament’s opening encounter.
Selection Surprises
The decision to overlook Lewis marks a notable omission from the England ranks as they prepare for their World Cup campaign. Ben Currie and Ben Talty join Lewis as non-playing reserves, completing a squad contingent that will support the matchday 17 but will not take the field against the Tongans.
McDermott’s half-back selections represent his preferred combination for the tournament’s first test, with the England captain Williams retaining his position alongside Smith as England look to make a strong start to their World Cup challenge.
Perth Bound
The match against Tonga is scheduled to take place on Saturday in Perth, with England’s squad composition now finalized ahead of the clash. The decision to name Lewis as a non-playing reserve means the half-back will have to watch from the sidelines as England’s campaign officially begins against the Pacific Islands nation.