Leeds Rhinos winger Ash Handley has been called into the Great Britain squad.
The 23-year-old was part of England’s World Cup 9s squad last month and was one of four players to be put on standby by the Lions.
Injuries to Ryan Hall and Oliver Gildart in the first two Tests have left the squad light in the outside backs, meaning Handley will significantly bolster the depth in that area.
He won’t be considered for this weekend’s clash with New Zealand, however he will be in contention for next week’s game against Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby.
Great Britain Tour Manager Jamie Peacock said: “We’ve been considering our options since losing Ryan Hall last weekend, and it makes sense for Ash to come out and join us in PNG.
“He had a good season with Leeds to earn his place in the Great Britain Performance Squad, which means he’s had all the necessary injections to come to PNG at short notice.
“He’s the sort of guy who will really appreciate and benefit from the experience of joining the senior squad, and he will add to our options in an area where our plans have been affected by injury.”
