Harry Newman and Joe Burgess Included in England Squad for Final Ashes Test
Harry Newman and Joe Burgess have been named in Shaun Wane’s 19-man England squad for the third and final rugby league Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley. Their inclusion provides a boost to the team ahead of the concluding match.
Newman’s selection means three Leeds players will have the chance to represent England on home turf, joining Kallum Watkins and Mikolaj Oledzki, who both retained their spots after last week’s defeat at Everton. Newman replaces Wigan centre Wardle, while Hull KR winger Burgess steps in for Dom Young, who sustained a broken foot in the previous game at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Although the Headingley contest has no bearing on the outcome of the series, head coach Shaun Wane remains dedicated to finishing on a strong note and avoiding another 3-0 Ashes whitewash like the one suffered by Great Britain in 2003.
“Of course we are disappointed not to be going into this final game with the opportunity to win the Ashes, but the goal now is to come away from the series with a victory,” said Wane.
“We did a lot of good things last week but ultimately, we need to be even better if we want to get a win this weekend.”
“It will be great to see Joe Burgess and Harry Newman in action this weekend. Joe has had a great season with Hull KR and Harry has been a consistent performer for me in an England jersey.”
Author’s Summary
Harry Newman and Joe Burgess strengthen England’s squad for the final Ashes Test, as coach Shaun Wane targets a morale-boosting victory despite the series being already decided.