There’s just over two months until England open their Rugby League World Cup campaign against Tonga, with head coach Brian McDermott continuing to keep a close eye on performances across Betfred Super League and NRL as he weighs up some tough decisions ahead of trimming down his 38-player performance programme.
Jack Welsby and Harry Robertson both caught the eye for St Helens on Thursday night despite the Saints falling to defeat at the BrewDog Stadium. Welsby scored and created a try, while Robertson produced a brilliant solo effort to cross the whitewash.
Leeds Rhinos edged a thrilling contest against Wakefield Trinity on Friday night, with England hopeful Jake Connor playing a key role for the Rhinos. Connor set up a try and kicked four crucial goals, while Trinity forward Caleb Hamlin-Uele produced another barnstorming display from the bench, crossing for a try, running for 118 metres and making 33 tackles.
Dean Hadley was again at his industrious best for Hull KR during their comfortable Round 22 victory over the Tigers. The forward made a game-high 51 tackles and ran for 162 metres from 17 carries as he continues to push for a place in the England squad for the first time.
Elsewhere, Zach Eckersley’s remarkable try-scoring form continued, with the Wigan youngster bagging a double against Toulouse to take his season tally to 24 tries. Half-back Harry Smith also impressed with the boot, kicking eight goals as the Warriors secured their tenth consecutive league victory.
Wolves flyer Matty Ashton was another to make his mark in the final Round 22 Super League fixture, crossing twice against the Bulls. Ashton also ran for a huge 253 metres from 22 carries as he looks to force his way back into the England squad after missing out on Ashes selection through injury.
There was plenty of encouragement for McDermott in the NRL too, with England hopeful Billy Smith scoring twice to help the Roosters edge past the Bulldogs on Friday. Smith was also the game’s leading metre-maker, finishing with 211 run metres.
Herbie Farnworth continued his excellent form for the Dolphins on Saturday, crossing for a try during their emphatic comeback victory over rivals Brisbane. Farnworth has been in stellar form throughout the season for the Dolphins, alongside fellow England international Morgan Knowles.
And on Sunday, Dom Young produced a standout performance for Newcastle in their away victory over Canberra. The winger scored two tries, made five line breaks and nine tackle busts, set up another try and ran for 203 metres from 17 carries in an emphatic all-round display.
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.
