Joe Burgess Set to End England Wait After Squad Changes
England have announced their 19-man squad for the third and final Ashes Test against Australia at a sold-out Headingley this Saturday, making two changes from the team that lost 14-4 in the second Test.
Squad Updates and Match Context
Following defeats of 26-6 and 14-4 in the first two Tests at Wembley and Hill Dickinson Stadium, England trail the series 2-0 and can no longer win the Ashes. The upcoming match in Leeds will see England playing for pride, hoping to avoid a 3-0 whitewash on home soil.
Australia’s Approach
Contrary to previous suggestions by their head coach Kevin Walters, Australia have decided to field their strongest side in the final Test, aiming to complete the whitewash.
Player Changes
- Hull KR winger Joe Burgess joins the squad, replacing winger Dom Young.
- Leeds Rhinos centre Harry Newman replaces centre Jake Wardle.
If Burgess and Newman play, it will mean every member of England's 24-man autumn squad will have featured in at least one Test.
"If both of these players take to the pitch, which seems probable, every member of England's 24-man squad this autumn will have participated in at least one of the three Tests."
Summary
England's squad changes ahead of the final Ashes Test underscore their aim to restore pride and involve all squad members despite being unable to prevent series defeat.