England head coach Brian McDermott will have plenty of selection headaches in the outside backs if this weekend's performances across the Betfred Super League and NRL are anything to go by.
Incumbent winger Tom Johnstone strengthened his case for a World Cup spot during Wakefield's Thursday night victory over Bradford, crossing for a crucial try while also racking up an impressive 200 metres from 19 carries.
Pushing hard for a place in England's World Cup squad is Wigan youngster Zach Eckersley, who continued his outstanding try-scoring form with a hat-trick in the Warriors' win away at Huddersfield. His three tries took his Super League tally to 19 for the season – the fourth-highest total in the competition.
Reigning Young Player of the Year Harry Robertson was another to impress on Friday night as he looks to break into the England squad. The versatile outside back shifted to stand-off against Catalans and looked dangerous throughout, scoring twice as St Helens recorded an important victory to fight their way back into the top six.
Robertson’s St Helens teammate Jack Welsby, who captained England during their 2023 test series opener against Tonga, also made a try scoring contribution during an accomplished display at the Totally Wicked Stadium.
Matty Ashton also boosted his England credentials with a brace in Warrington's Super Saturday Showdown victory over Hull KR. Ashton missed out on last year's Ashes series after suffering a season-ending ACL injury and will be desperate to force his way back into the international setup and secure a seat on the plane to Australia in October.
In the NRL, AJ Brimson crossed for a try as Gold Coast claimed a hard-fought win over the in-form Manly Sea Eagles, further strengthening his case for more international honours after debuting for England during the Ashes.
Meanwhile, Sydney Roosters centre Billy Smith, who was overlooked for last year's test series, continued his impressive campaign with a crucial try in his side's victory over Melbourne Storm, keeping the Roosters' hopes of a top two finish firmly alive.
England kick-off their 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign in Perth on Saturday 17 October against Tonga. Follow their World Cup journey across England RL digital channels, YouTube and the Our League app.
