As the England Wheelchair squad prepare to head Down Under for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, here is a guide to the key positions and how each role contributes on field.
Although Wheelchair Rugby League uses familiar positions, roles can be more fluid than in the running game. The 5 players on each team will constantly rotate to create space for one another in attack and adapt to where they are needed in defence.
Wingers provide width, operating on the edges of the attack. Their job in possession is to make metres forward and finish attacking moves by holding their width and scoring tries. In defence, they protect the outside channels and prevent opponents from getting around the edge. Without a fullback to cover the backfield, the wingers will work together to defend kicks in behind.
The middle operates through the centre of the field and takes on much of the physical work. The position is broadly comparable to a prop in the running game, carrying the ball forward, making tackles and providing support around the ruck.
The pivot acts as a key organiser and distributor, often directing play from the middle of the field. They link the central players with the wingers and help set the tempo in attack, often taking responsibility for the kick at the end of the set.
Finally, the loose forward fills a versatile role between the middle and the pivot. In possession, they must be able to share the go-forward responsibilities of a middle, and the creativity demands of a pivot throughout an attacking set. Out of possession, they form part of the central defensive line, alongside the middle and the pivot.
The list below sets out the primary position of each member of England’s 2026 squad, although selections may vary according to the opposition, tactics and balance of the five-player line-up.
Mason Billington – Winger
Luis Domingos – Winger
Rob Hawkins – Winger
Chris Haynes – Winger
Lewis King (C) – Middle
Tristan Norfolk – Middle
Nathan Collins – Pivot
Finlay O’Neill - Pivot
Jack Brown (VC) – Loose Forward
Joe Coyd – Loose Forward
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