Harry Newman and Joe Burgess Join England Squad for Final Ashes Test
Harry Newman and Joe Burgess have been added to Shaun Wane’s 19-man squad for the third and final rugby league Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley on Saturday.
Newman's selection means three Leeds players could represent their country at their home ground, joining Kallum Watkins and Mikolaj Oledzki, who retained their places after last week’s loss at Everton. Newman replaces Wigan centre Wardle, while Hull KR winger Joe Burgess takes the spot of Dom Young, who suffered a broken foot during the defeat at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
England's Determination Despite Dead Rubber Status
Although the Headingley match is effectively a dead rubber, England head coach Shaun Wane is committed to avoiding a repeat of the 3-0 whitewash England experienced, then known as Great Britain, in the 2003 Test series.
“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. 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.”
Changes in the Squad
- Newman replaces Wigan centre Wardle.
- Burgess replaces Dom Young, who is sidelined with a broken foot.
Leeds Players Representing England at Headingley
- Kallum Watkins
- Mikolaj Oledzki
- Harry Newman
Author’s summary: Harry Newman and Joe Burgess boost England’s squad as Shaun Wane aims to secure a final Ashes victory despite the series already being decided.