With less than 100 days to go until the ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes Series kicks off, we take a look at the England stars who have been lighting up the Betfred Super League in Round 19, as well as Round 20 of the NRL.
Owen Trout is at the forefront of Leigh Leopards’ impressive form in recent months. Trout topped the tackle count with a mammoth 31 tackles in the Leopards’ historic victory away at St Helens.
Mike McMeeken shone in Wakefield’s win on Friday. The Trinity skipper was influential to his teammates, producing one try, one try assist, 26 tackles and 110 metres - another all-rounded performance from the seasoned prop.
What can we expect to see from McMeeken in the opening test at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25 October, if selected?
Meanwhile, Harry Newman entertained at AMT Headingley Stadium in Round 19, as did teammate Ash Handley with two try assists. The pair have been pivotal to Leeds Rhinos’ success in 2025 as they look to consolidate their place in the top four of Super League.
Can they bring success to the England team later this year?
In defeat, Warriors Ethan Havard and Junior Nsemba made 85 tackles between them on Saturday – will we see them lining up and strong in defence against the Aussies this autumn?
Mikey Lewis marked his return with a dazzling display in Perpignan – it was two tries for the reigning Man of Steel, taking his total to 17 for the season – and just one behind Super League’s current top try scorer, Jai Field.
A lively Lewis was also at the heart of the action with one try assist and five tackle busts as Hull KR edge ever closer to securing their first League Leaders’ Shield – will we see this magic and finesse in the England halves come October?
The England skipper, George Williams, came out decent stats in Round 19 despite Warrington's loss in Castleford. The Wolves general made 150 metres in 21 carries, forced seven tackle busts and completed 22 tackles. Consistency is key as we approach the Ashes...
Over in the NRL, Herbie Farnworth a standout in the Dolphins’ win over the North Queensland Cowboys with 151 metres, two tackle busts and two line breaks.
For Newcastle Knights, Kai Pearce-Paul and Dom Young racked up over 200 metres combined, while Morgan Smithies made 30 tackles in his 35-minute stint for Canberra Raiders.
These players will certainly be vital to England’s chances of victory against Australia.
Rivalries will be reignited when England take on Australia in the ABK Beer Rugby League Ashes this autumn. The two nations will meet in a three-match test series over 20 years in the making and with the second and third test completely SOLD OUT; Wembley Stadium on Saturday 25 October is your only place to watch this fierce rivalry live!
Book your Wembley tickets here with prices starting from just £20 for adults and £10 for U16’s.
