England face an important game against France this weekend, as they step up their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. England boss, Shaun Wane, was hoping to use the game and the associated camp, to assess his squad in their only competitive game of the season so far.
Wane has named a squad which includes six potential debutants, all of whom would have been hoping to impress the England boss ahead of the international series against Samoa which has been confirmed in the autumn.
Multiple outlets had reported that Wane may be unable to lead England for their mid-season international against France, due to complications with an unexpected operation in the week.
Now it has been confirmed that Wane will be absent from the touchline for the game this weekend.
Andy Last to take charge of England due to Shaun Wane absence
Credit: Imago Images
Serious About Rugby League contacted the RFL, who confirmed that Wane would be unable to travel to France due to his ongoing recovery from the procedure. Andy Last will take charge of England in Wane’s absence.
In a statement on the RFL website, they state:
“Assistant Coach Andy Last will take charge of the England Men’s side this weekend for their mid-season international against France in Toulouse.
“Head Coach Shaun Wane has undergone an ankle operation, and the recovery time means he will be unable to travel to France with the team on Friday morning from Manchester.”
Last is the current assistant manager of the Catalans Dragons, under Steve McNamara. He has previously coached Hull FC and Castleford Tigers, taking the reigns at clubs on an interim basis following the departure of Lee Radford.
Speaking to the Sportsman, ahead of England’s squad announcement, Wane had stated his excitement at the prospect of leading out England in the game against France. It will be a huge disappointment, therefore, what he will be unable to do so.
“I’m excited. I’m really pumped for the news of the Test series coming up,” Wane said.
“To get these games on is tremendous and to be able to build-on what we did last year against Tonga is great for our competition.
“I want the players to enjoy it. Playing for England has to be enjoyable and a pleasure, and we’re all proud Englishmen. When we get together it’s not just about pushing each other really hard, it’s about enjoying our time together and the spirit we have.
