England names six NRL players in Ashes squad as Man of Steel winner misses out
England’s eagerly awaited Ashes squad for the three-test series against Australia includes six players from the NRL, but the decision has sparked discussion after selecting a group that notably excludes the season’s most consistent performer, Jake Connor. The Leeds Rhinos stand-off, who won Super League’s Man of Steel award for 2025, did not feature in the 24-man party announced on Monday.
Wane’s selection philosophy: form over accolades
England head coach Shaun Wane stressed that the Man of Steel honour did not factor into his selection. In remarks reported by Sky Sports, Wane said he does not weigh individual awards when choosing his squad. “When I’m picking a squad, the thing you will never hear from me is ‘he’s won the Man of Steel he needs to be in’,” he explained. “I don’t even know who picked the Man of Steel, I don’t know what goes into it.”
Wane added that the focus was on identifying players who can perform at the highest level against Australia in the Ashes series. “The Dream Team, I don’t even know who’s in the Dream Team, so that never comes into my reckoning. Them things that are important to other people. I just watch the players play and think who can do a fantastic job against Australia. It is more about form than anything else.”
His candid stance reflects a broader coaching approach: prioritize current form, team balance, and the ability to deliver under pressure in a multi-match series where tactical flexibility will be crucial.
NRL representation: six players across the squad
England’s 24-man squad features six players plying their trade in the NRL, highlighting the growing cross-hemisphere influence in the long-standing Ashes rivalry. The NRL contingent includes:
- John Bateman (North Queensland Cowboys)
- AJ Brimson (Gold Coast Titans)
- Herbie Farnworth (Dolphins)
- Kai Pearce-Paul (Newcastle Knights)
- Morgan Smithies (Canberra Raiders)
- Dom Young (Newcastle Knights)
Brimson’s inclusion is particularly notable given his recent switch in allegiance. The Queensland Origin star had previously represented Australia but became eligible to represent England through his maternal lineage, and the International Rugby League tribunal’s approval sealed his eligibility for England this year. Brimson’s appointment adds a dynamic combination of speed and versatility to the squad’s backline options.
Other selections and the squad’s balance
In total, England’s backline options stretch across traditional halves and creative playmakers. Wane has named three halves—Mikey Lewis, Harry Smith, and captain George Williams—ensuring a mix of creativity and control. The decision to retain three different playmaking options gives England flexibility to adapt to Australia’s varied tactical approaches across the three Tests.
The mix of Super League and NRL knowledge in the pack is expected to contribute to a robust forward battle. With a quarter of the squad drawn from the NRL, England aims to blend the physical contest of the English competition with the speed and doggedness found in Australia’s league, testing the squad’s resilience across a demanding England-to-Australia travel schedule.
Historical context and what the Ashes mean this year
This year’s Ashes series will be the first rugby league Ashes showdown in 22 years, underscoring the significance of the clash for both nations. Australia has held the Ashes since 1973, a history that adds weight to England’s preparations and the pressure to strike in the opening Test. The 24-man England squad will be tasked with translating club-lot form into national success, battling through a series that will test cohesion, composure, and tactical adaptation against a formidable Australian lineup.
Key takeaways for England fans
– Six NRL players in the squad highlight England’s willingness to draw on top-tier overseas talent.
– The Man of Steel award was explicitly sidelined in the selection process, per Wane’s comments.
– The squad balances three playmakers at halfback with a selection of potent backs and a strong forward pack to contest the Australian forwards.
The England camp will now prepare for a historic three-Test series that could redefine the nation’s standing in international rugby league. With players who have proven themselves in Super League and the NRL alike, the Ashes series promises to be a fascinating contest of styles, traditions, and national pride.
