In the latest England Watch, Mike McMeeken was once again the leader of the pack for Wakefield Trinity in their dramatic victory over Leeds Rhinos in the Betfred Super League.
The Trinity captain completed 28 tackles and 116 metres in 16 carries and was a true role model to his teammates in what was a highly intense and physical affair.
It’s set to be a brutal battle against Australia in the upcoming ABK Beer Ashes Series - will McMeeken have an influence?
His opposition, Harry Newman and Ash Handley also experienced all the possible blood, sweat and tears for the Rhinos, as did James McDonnell who gave it his all with 40 tackles.
Six England representatives were in action for Wigan Warriors on Friday night as they defeated Catalans Dragons in Part One of the Super League Split Round.
General Harry Smith produced a top performance under the watchful eye of England Head Coach Shaun Wane.
The Warriors playmaker came up with a try assist, 52 metres, 22 tackles, 15 kicks in general play, as well as four goals – the smartest of showings from the England halfback.
And if Jake Wardle starts in the Ashes Series, then the Aussies could be in big trouble. Wardle touched down for the opening try of the night on Friday and posed a huge threat; running rings around the Catalans Dragons defence on multiple occasions.
Likewise, Wigan winger Liam Marshall ran 108 metres in 15 carries and also assisted one try.
Powerhouses Ethan Havard and Junior Nsemba racked up 58 tackles between them, with Nsemba tearing up the Dragons defenders with four tackle busts. Will he be a danger this autumn?
Brad O’Neill also impressed as he aims for a second England appearance, performing extremely well in both defence and attack.
O’Neill scored the match-winning try for the champions after backing himself from dummy half. He also stood tall with 27 tackles - will he get his chance against Australia?
In Round 21 of the NRL, Morgan Smithies came up against England teammates Kai Pearce-Paul and Dom Young, with Smithies’ Raiders winning 44-18.
Yet again it was a mammoth stint from Smithies who made 23 tackles in 39 minutes, as well as 81 metres in just ten carries.
Likewise, KPP made another huge impact for the Knights with 128 metres, 37 tackles and a try. And despite the defeat, Young was all over the park with 112 metres.
These are key figures who could help get England over the line against Australia in the Ashes...
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.
