Historic Ashes Tour Returns for the Kangaroos
The Australian Kangaroos have officially named a 24-player squad to represent the nation on the 2025 Ashes Tour, marking the first Ashes series in rugby league between Australia and England in more than two decades. The tour will feature Test matches at Wembley Stadium on October 25, Everton Stadium on November 1, and Headingley on November 8, as the Kangaroos chase a celebrated triumph on foreign soil.
Squad Overview: Mix of Youth and Experience
The selection committee, led by Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters, has balanced the squad with a blend of emerging talent and seasoned internationals. Key figures from the recent Finals Series—where seven players took part in Sunday’s Grand Final between Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos—have earned selection, highlighting the form and depth across the NRL. Captain Isaah Yeo returns to lead from the second row, while veteran playmakers and spark plugs are spread throughout the matchday 17.
Notable Selections
- Nathan Cleary and Mitchell Moses provide class at halfback and five-eighth, offering vision and steady leadership.
- Cameron Munster adds strike power and creativity in the halves alongside Cleary.
- Kicking and defensive versatility are supplied by Harry Grant, who returns as vice-captain, and Reece Walsh in the outside backs.
- Rising stars and debutants such as Keaon Koloamatangi, Gehamat Shibasaki, Jacob Preston, and Ethan Strange bring fresh energy to the Kangaroos’ spine and backline.
Key Players and Roles
The squad lineup demonstrates depth across positions, with Penrith’s Isaah Yeo captaining the side and a forward pack that includes Tasmanian-born talent Lindsay Collins and North Queensland spearheads Reuben Cotter and Tom Dearden. In the centers and wings, players like Zac Lomax and Kotoni Staggs provide attacking options, while Xavier Coates and Mark Nawaqanitawase give X-factor in the back three and edges.
What this means for the Series
England will host the Kangaroos on three grounds, presenting a stern test of endurance, skill, and strategic execution. ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM described the 2025 Ashes Tour as a celebration of Rugby League’s heritage and rivalry, underscoring the rare honor of pulling on the green and gold in such a high-profile series. For Walters, the mix of youth and experience is designed to balance immediate impact with long-term development for the national team.
Schedule at a Glance
Test matches are set for Wembley Stadium (October 25), Everton Stadium (November 1), and Headingley (November 8). The results will reverberate not just through the cricket-like Ashes narrative but through rugby league’s ongoing international growth and the ongoing legacy of Kangaroo teams.
Conclusion: A Milestone for Rugby League
The 2025 Kangaroos squad represents more than a tour; it signifies a milestone in rugby league’s timeline. The players’ dedication, families’ support, and the sport’s enduring appeal will be on display as Australia aims to reclaim the Ashes and strengthen the code’s international prestige.
