Key Highlights
- Joe Burgess could make his first international appearance for a decade after being named in the 19-man England squad.
- Hull KR winger Joe Burgess was part of Hull KR’s treble-winning campaign this season, which includes the Grand Final win over Wigan.
- The Ashes series is currently Australia leading with a 2-0 advantage, having won the first two games in the three-match series against England.
- England squad features several notable changes including Joe Burgess and Harry Newman’s return after missing previous games due to injuries or other commitments.
Rugby League Ashes: A Decade-Long Wait for Burgess
Joe Burgess, the 31-year-old winger from Hull KR, has been selected in the England squad for the final Ashes Test against Australia. This marks his first international appearance for a decade after last playing for England during the 2015 series against New Zealand.
Hull KR’s Treble-Winning Season
Burgess’ selection is a significant highlight of Hull KR’s remarkable 2025 season, where he played a crucial role in securing their treble victory. His performance in the Grand Final win over Wigan saw him score two tries, showcasing his importance to the team and setting the stage for his potential return to the international scene.
Australia Leads Ashes Series
The Ashes series currently stands at 2-0 in favor of Australia. After winning the first game by a wide margin (26-6) at Wembley, they secured their second victory with a close 14-4 win against England in Liverpool last weekend. The final Test is set to take place on Saturday at AMT Headingley in Leeds.
England Squad Changes and Key Players
The England squad has undergone several changes for the final Test, including the inclusion of Joe Burgess and Harry Newman who are both returning after missing previous games due to injuries or other commitments. Jake Wardle is not called up this time, while Jack Welsby remains left out again.
Expert Perspectives on the Final Ashes Test
England coach Shaun Wane expressed his determination for a victory in the final Test: “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. 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.” His comments highlight the intensity and pressure surrounding the upcoming match.
Despite the challenges, Wane remains optimistic about his team’s chances: “It will be great to see Burgess and 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.” These sentiments underscore the importance of these players’ contributions and how their return could potentially impact the game.
Preparation and Fan Expectations
The final Test is scheduled to kick off at 14:30 GMT on Saturday, with live coverage available on BBC One. The match will be watched by a sold-out crowd at AMT Headingley in Leeds, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding this crucial game.
With Australia already securing their victory in the series, England’s fans are keenly waiting for a comeback performance from their team. This final Test holds significant importance not just for the Ashes title but also as a testament to the resilience and determination of the England squad under pressure.
