ZimbabweConnor Left Out of England Squad
Brian McDermott says players selected are better suited to his plans, Mikey Lewis preferred as half-back option. England's Rugby League World Cup squad has no players from Leeds Rhinos or Wakefield Trinity.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
England head coach Brian McDermott has explained his decision to omit Jake Connor from the Rugby League World Cup squad. McDermott says the selected players are better suited to his plans to defeat the world's best teams.
Connor, the 2025 Super League Man of Steel, was left out of the squad despite being in impressive form for Leeds Rhinos this year. McDermott has instead chosen Hull KR's Mikey Lewis as a half-back option.
McDermott said Connor missed out on selection by a small margin, and it came down to who he thinks can best stick to the game plan. He wants players who can introduce a more off-the-cuff and exciting brand of rugby.
Lewis had a disappointing year for Hull KR in 2026, punctured by off-colour performances and disciplinary problems. However, McDermott believes he can get the best out of the half-back.
The England squad includes players from 12 different clubs, with Wigan Warriors leading the way with seven inclusions. Notably, just four Super League clubs have at least one player chosen by McDermott.
England begins their World Cup campaign against Tonga in Perth on 17 October. They will then face France in the same city on 24 October and Papua New Guinea in Wollongong on 30 October.
McDermott has put his faith in players currently playing in the NRL, with eight clubs represented in the 23-man squad. The squad includes captain George Williams, who will join the Dolphins after the tournament.
Key facts
- Jake Connor omitted from England's Rugby League World Cup squad
- Mikey Lewis chosen as half-back option over Connor
- Wigan Warriors have seven players in the England squad
- England's World Cup campaign begins on 17 October against Tonga
Three perspectives
Neutral
The selection of the England squad has been met with surprise and debate. The team's performance in the World Cup will be closely watched. England's campaign begins in October, and fans will be eager to see how the team fares.
Positive
McDermott's decision to choose players who can stick to the game plan may lead to a more cohesive team performance. The inclusion of players from various clubs can bring different strengths and styles to the team.
Negative
The omission of Connor has been met with criticism, given his impressive form for Leeds Rhinos. The lack of representation from certain Super League clubs may also be seen as a disappointment.
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