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 England squad for the third and final rugby league Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley on Saturday.
Newman’s inclusion brings the number of Leeds players representing England at their home ground to three, alongside Kallum Watkins and Mikolaj Oledzki, who retained their spots after last week’s match at Everton.
Newman replaces Wigan centre Wardle, while Joe Burgess, the Hull KR winger, steps in for Dom Young, who suffered a broken foot during the defeat at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Although the Headingley game no longer affects the series outcome, England head coach Shaun Wane is focused on avoiding a repeat of the 3-0 whitewash endured by England (then 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.” — Shaun Wane
Wane’s focus remains on ending the series positively despite the earlier losses, with fresh players adding strength and hope for England’s performance at Headingley.
Summary: Harry Newman and Joe Burgess join the England squad for the final Ashes Test, adding fresh energy as coach Shaun Wane aims to secure a morale-boosting win despite the series being decided.