Australia’s Kangaroos Prepare for a Historic Ashes Tour
The Australian Rugby League Commission has confirmed a 24-player Kangaroos squad to represent the nation on the 2025 Ashes Tour. The tour marks the first Ashes series in more than two decades and will feature three Test matches in England, including fixtures at Wembley Stadium on October 25, Everton Stadium on November 1, and Headingley on November 8.
Describing the tour as one of the most anticipated in recent memory, ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM highlighted the significance of rugby league’s oldest international rivalry. “The return of the Ashes after 22 years is not just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of Rugby League’s rich heritage and enduring rivalry between two countries,” he said. “To wear the green and gold in an Ashes series is a rare honour. It’s the culmination of years hard work, sacrifice and the reward for all that stood behind every player.”
V’landys also spoke to the broader impact of the tour, noting that it would carry the pride of a nation and the legacy of the players who came before. “For these players, their families, and the game itself, being part of an Ashes Tour will be a lifelong memory,” he added.
Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters echoed the excitement surrounding the squad, praising the blend of youth and experience and the performances seen in the finals series. “The State of Origin series was highly competitive and we saw some brilliant performances from key players in the Finals Series,” Walters said. “There is a mix of youth and experience and all of them have the desire to represent their country on this stage. I cannot wait to coach this squad. England will be a huge Test on their home soil however this squad knows what it takes to perform at the highest level and knows what it takes to win.”
The 24-player squad features a mix of proven performers and debutants who will aim to deliver a successful campaign on English soil. The squad, listed alphabetically, includes:
- Blayke Brailey (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
- Patrick Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)
- Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)
- Xavier Coates (Melbourne Storm)
- Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters)
- Reuben Cotter (North Queensland Cowboys)
- Angus Crichton (Sydney Roosters)
- Tom Dearden (North Queensland Cowboys)
- Dylan Edwards (Penrith Panthers)
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans)
- Harry Grant (vc) (Melbourne Storm)
- Keaon Koloamatangi (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
- Zac Lomax (Parramatta Eels)
- Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels)
- Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)
- Mark Nawaqanitawase (Sydney Roosters) *
- Jacob Preston (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs) *
- Gehamat Shibasaki (Brisbane Broncos) *
- Lindsay Smith (Penrith Panthers)
- Kotoni Staggs (Brisbane Broncos)
- Ethan Strange (Canberra Raiders) *
- Reece Walsh (Brisbane Broncos) *
- Isaah Yeo (c) (Penrith Panthers)
- Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)
* Denotes debutant
England’s series against the Kangaroos promises to be a landmark event for rugby league fans in both nations. The Wembley clash sets the tone, followed by a November double-header in Everton and Headingley, respectively. The squad’s composition—with a mix of star power, experience, and fresh faces—suggests a balanced approach from Walters, combining elite playmaking with rugged forward depth.
As preparations begin in earnest, fans will be eagerly watching for how these players adapt to English conditions and the demanding schedule. The Ashes Tour represents more than trophies; it is a renewed opportunity to celebrate rugby league’s global appeal and its enduring camaraderie across borders.
What this means for the Kangaroos
With a roster that includes leaders like Isaah Yeo and captaincy duties under Morris, the team is set to push for a series win on foreign soil. The involvement of multiple players who advanced through the State of Origin and Finals Series signals a squad built for high-pressure environments and tactical versatility. The Ashes return will also serve as a platform for emerging stars to establish themselves on the international stage.
Looking Ahead
Fans can expect robust media coverage and live broadcasts as the Kangaroos take on England at iconic venues. The 2025 Ashes Tour will not only test the team’s on-field capabilities but also its capacity to unite supporters behind a shared national Rugby League heritage.
