The wait is over. The Rugby League World Cup 2026 is finally here, and England Men are preparing to take centre stage as they begin their campaign against Tonga in Perth, Australia this weekend (K.O. 10.05am).
Every match of RLWC 2026 will be broadcast live on Premier Sports, with Brian McDermott's side aiming to make a strong opening statement as they look to pursue World Cup glory.
England arrive at the tournament with unfinished business. Four years ago, they suffered a heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Samoa on home soil, ending their hopes of reaching a second successive World Cup Final.
Before that, England came agonisingly close to lifting the trophy in 2017, narrowly losing 6-0 to Australia in Brisbane.
Now, under the guidance of new head coach McDermott, a fresh chapter begins.
Blending proven international performers with emerging talent, McDermott has assembled a squad capable of challenging the world's best.
The tournament also marks England's first competitive action since last autumn's Ashes series, adding to the anticipation surrounding their return to the international stage.
Tonga provide the first challenge this Saturday, with fixtures against France and Papua New Guinea to follow.
And while England boast a perfect record against Tonga, history suggests they cannot afford any complacency.
The two nations have met six times previously, with England claiming victory on every occasion. Their most memorable encounter came in the semi-finals of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, when England edged a thrilling contest 20-18 to book their place in the World Cup Final.
More recently, England completed a clean sweep in a three-match series against Tonga in 2023, but both sides have evolved significantly since then.
Nine players from Shaun Wane's 24-man squad that featured against Tonga three years ago remain part of England's World Cup group, bringing valuable experience of dealing with the physical and explosive threat the Tongans can pose.
Those players are Matty Ashton, Ben Currie, Morgan Knowles, Mikey Lewis, Victor Radley, Harry Smith, Jack Welsby, George Williams and Dom Young.
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McDermott has named an exciting side for England's tournament opener, with several players set to make a significant impact.
Wigan Warriors duo Zach Eckersley and Sam Walters are in line to make their England debuts after impressive club campaigns, which saw the Warriors lift the Challenge Cup trophy and Super League’s League Leaders’ Shield.
Meanwhile, there are two new faces who will line-up for England this Saturday. Sydney Roosters’ Hugo Savala is set to earn his first international cap, and Canterbury Bulldogs’ Max King will also get his opportunity on the international stage as England look to showcase the depth within their squad.
One of the standout names remains Victor Radley. The NRL Grand Final winner brings leadership, aggression and big-game experience, qualities that could be crucial in what is expected to be a fiercely contested opening fixture.
In the backs, the Dolphins' Herbie Farnworth continues to be one of England's superstars. Widely regarded as one of the best centres in the game, Farnworth's ability to create opportunities and turn a match should make him a key figure throughout the tournament.
Junior Nsemba is another player with plenty to prove. The powerful forward returns to the England side determined to make his mark on the international stage, while his Wigan teammate and the Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel Brad O'Neill will be eager to transfer his outstanding club form into an England jersey.
Perhaps the most significant partnership for England will be that of captain George Williams and half-back partner Harry Smith. Williams' creativity and composure, combined with Smith's kicking game and organisation skills, give England a dangerous and playmaking half-back pairing in Game 1.
As the World Cup journey begins, every game matters. Tonga represent a formidable opening test, but with a talented squad raring to, McDermott's side will be confident of making a winning start and laying down a marker for the rest of the tournament.
Follow England's journey and watch the 2026 Rugby League World Cup LIVE with a Premier Sports subscription. Brian McDermott's side kick off their World Cup campaign in Perth on Saturday 17 October against Tonga.
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