England Rugby League: Unchanged Team for France Despite Tonga Defeat
BBC Sport reports that England coach Brian McDermott has selected an unchanged 19-man squad to face France in the Rugby League World Cup on 22 October, despite their 30-12 defeat by Tonga in the opening game.
AJ Brimson retains his place at full-back, with Jack Welsby among the interchanges. Luke Thompson continues at prop, and Harry Smith alongside George Williams in the centre.
Here are the key points:
- England squad:
- AJ Brimson, Dom Young, Hugo Savala, Herbie Farnworth, Zach Eckersley, George Williams, Harry Smith, Max King, Brad O'Neill, Luke Thompson, Junior Nsemba, Kai Pearce-Paul, Victor Radley.
- Interchanges: Jez Litten, Ben Currie, Ethan Havard, Sam Walters, Jack Welsby, Matty Ashton.
- Reserves: Kallum Watkins, Mikey Lewis, Ben Talty.
The defeat by Tonga has put England's semi-final chances in peril. They must win their next two games—against France and Papua New Guinea—to stand a chance, and possibly by a large margin. The outcome of Tonga's game against Samoa on 28 October will also play a crucial role in England's progression.